The session will push forward the topics raised in the February issue of Spokes in the article "Science centres and research: part fo the same ecosystem ?" It is intended as a truly reverse session, in which all participants are invited to contribute: it is highly recommended that you read (or browse through… ) the article beforehand to fully participate...

Science engagement activities and culture venues are increasingly perceived by research institutions as something more than outreach devices: they start to be recognised as productive interfaces between research and other social actors. Such interfaces are becoming an intrinsic feature of knowledge production in the XXI century, as societal impact is no longer considered as a consequence of research, but a part of research. Is there an active role for science centres and cultural activities in the process of knowledge production? Can we imagine them as research infrastructures? An article in the February issue of Spokes explores this, through interviews with key actors in research and engagement fields. In the article, they provide examples and reflections, but also open questions and critical issues, presented as “issues to be discussed in Heilbronn.” In this reverse session, you’ll have the opportunity to answer and address these questions yourself.