Insights from the Dialogue Incubator & Science Communication Lab
In the Dialogue Incubator and the Science Communication Lab, VU researchers explore how dialogue and science communication can be integrated into their own research practice. In testimonials, participants share what the program has brought them: from new insights into their role as researchers to concrete interactions with societal partners, colleagues, or target audiences.
[Link: Read stories from participants in the Dialogue Incubator & SciComLab]
Note: Link to the page above will follow later
Dialogue on Collaboration with the Ministry of Defense
Science in Dialogue also supports discussions on research topics that are socially or politically sensitive. One example is the dialogue on collaboration with the Ministry of Defense. During this meeting, researchers discussed questions related to academic autonomy, social responsibility, security, ethics, and dual-use knowledge.
Dialogues of this kind are not intended to quickly reach a single position. They provide a space to carefully examine concerns, values, arguments, and dilemmas, so that faculties and research communities can better determine what is needed to act responsibly.
[Link: Read more about the Defense Dialogue]
Note: Link to the page above will follow later
National Dialogue on Academic Freedom
In 2026, VU Amsterdam hosted the national meeting of the National Dialogue on Academic Freedom. Representatives from Dutch universities gathered to share experiences regarding academic freedom, societal pressure, professional courage, and the role of dialogue within universities.
The meeting demonstrated that academic freedom is not merely a legal or administrative issue, but also a matter of daily practice. How do we conduct difficult conversations? Who is given the space to participate in the discussion? And how do universities remain places where differences, doubts, and criticism can be carefully examined?
[Link: Read more about the National Dialogue on Academic Freedom]
Note: Link to the page above will follow later
What do we mean by “dialogue”?
Dialogue is not a debate, a panel discussion, or a communication campaign. In a debate, persuasion is often the central focus. In a panel discussion, a few experts typically speak to an audience. In a communication campaign, the primary goal is to convey a message.
Dialogue starts somewhere else. It involves exploring perspectives, experiences, values, and assumptions. Participants listen to one another, ask questions, slow down the conversation, and try to better understand what is at stake for different people.
For researchers, dialogue can help to:
- better understand societal issues and concerns;
- identify blind spots in research;
- collaborate with other forms of knowledge and experience;
- open up discussion about ethical and social dilemmas;
- conduct more reflective and responsive research;
- to develop new research questions, collaborations, or courses of action.
Dialogue does not mean that everyone has to agree. It does, however, require a willingness to examine one’s own perspective and to make space for voices that are not yet naturally heard.
Science in Dialogue at VU Amsterdam
Science in Dialogue focuses on dialogue in research, impact, and valorization. We work to bridge the gap between scientific and societal perspectives in research practices, dynamic networks, and collaboration with societal partners.
In doing so, we collaborate with various units within VU. The University Library provides a vital foundation for research support, training, and community building. IXA-GO is a partner in the areas of impact, commercialization, and collaboration with external parties. CTL focuses on dialogue in education and faculty professional development. 3D and NEWConnective focus on dialogue, community, and campus life. In addition, we collaborate with C&M, DURF, graduate schools, research institutes, and faculties.
Together, these parties form a broader network centered on dialogue at VU. Within that network, Science in Dialogue is the hub for researchers and research groups who wish to use dialogue in their research and to achieve societal impact.
Contact Us
Would you like to know how dialogue can contribute to your research, grant application, impact strategy, or collaboration with societal partners? Please contact Science in Dialogue.
We’d be happy to help you determine which form of dialogue best suits your project, target audience, and research question. We can also advise you on training, guidance, or participation in one of our programs.
