On 7 October, Social Innovation Japan Co-Founder Mariko McTier joined researchers and leaders from Japan and Germany for “Science for Society: Translating Research into Societal Impact” at the Institute of Science Tokyo.
The panel explored how research can better contribute to real-world change, and how stronger relationships between science and society can help build public trust.
Key themes from the discussion
Turning research into societal impact
How can research move beyond academic outputs and contribute to practical responses to social and environmental challenges?Building trust in science
Transparency, dialogue and stronger connections between researchers and society all have an important role to play.Connecting science and civil society
Mariko brought perspectives from SIJ’s work with communities, organisations and initiatives such as mymizu, highlighting the value of connecting evidence with lived experience and action.Going beyond data alone
While science- and fact-based approaches are essential, evidence alone does not necessarily lead to behaviour or systems change.
As Mariko shared during the discussion: “Data and facts can only go so far to create change.”
The conversation brought together perspectives from academia and civil society, and highlighted the importance of connection, real-world relevance, transparency and responsibility in ensuring that science genuinely serves society.
The event was jointly organised by the Leibniz Association, Institute of Science Tokyo and DWIH Tokyo (German Centre for Research and Innovation Tokyo).