Mind the Gap: Bridging Science, Policy and Publics

Organizers:

• • Ruđer Bošković Institute (RBI) — Host/Organiser. 
  • European Commission Representation in Croatia — Host/Co-organiser.

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Venue: Representation of the European Commission in Croatia, Ul. Augusta Cesarca 4–6, Zagreb

Date: 4 December 2025

Language: English

Accessibility: The venue is centrally located; please contact the organisers for any access needs at pr@irb.hr 

How can fundamental research better shape public policy and societal choices? How do we build public trust in science and strengthen meaningful engagement beyond the lab? The Zagreb Science Communication Forum brings together researchers, policymakers, communicators, journalists and the public to exchange proven approaches, sharpen skills, and champion the role of curiosity-driven research in Europe, especially ahead of FP10.

Designed and hosted by the Ruđer Bošković Institute in partnership with the European Commission Representation in Croatia, the Forum is part newsroom, part policy lab, part good practices showroom. It asks a blunt question: how do we turn the work that happens at the bench into understanding, and then into action, before the next framework programme, FP10, locks in Europe’s priorities?

The programme opens with a keynote from Marcin Mońko of the European Research Council Executive Agency, framing basic research as Europe’s innovation engine rather than a luxury line in a tight budget. From there, it ushers us into two intertwined conversations: first, a clear case for safeguarding curiosity-driven research in FP10 as the bedrock of Europe’s competitiveness and capacity for unforeseen breakthroughs. Second, a candid reckoning with the communication gap, what it takes for researchers to step beyond the lab, build modern engagement skills, and move evidence through today’s volatile media and policy currents.

If you report on science, make policy, or build the discoveries that will define the next decade, this is your room. Come for the debate. Leave ready to explain, persuade and engage, so fundamental research doesn’t just shape the future, it earns the public’s trust to get us there.

Designed with researchers and postdocs as well as policy and decision makers in mind and equally relevant to journalists, editors, and agency leaders, the Forum blends strategy with practice: candid debates, a showcase of proven formats, and highlights of science-communication success stories.