The Swedish Science Barometer 2025: Optimism about technology wanes in Sweden

Public confidence in research remains consistently high in Sweden, but optimism about technology is waning. Furthermore, Swedes believe that research plays a positive role in improving politics. These are some of the findings of the 2024/25 VA science Barometer, now available in English.

Our current activities

Exploring the power of art, science, and public engagement
The new Erasmus+ project Rock Your Research officially started with a kick-off meeting at Linnaeus University on 3–4 March 2025. This three-year initiative will explore how higher education institutions (HEIs) can integrate artistic collaboration into research and public engagement, fostering knowledge valorisation – the process of ensuring knowledge is effectively shared and applied by society. Public & Science Sweden is one of five partner organisations in the project. Read more.

LOESS soil education materials now being piloted
The EU LOESS project has been busy developing a range of materials to support teachers in delivering soil education in the classroom and is now entering a piloting phase. Materials include learning scenarios and a MOOC course for STEM teachers. A glossary of soil-related keywords and a case study database of soil education practices are also available. Read more.

Final report of EC’s Mutual Learning Exercise on Public Engagement to be presented
The European Commission’s Mutual Learning Exercise on Public Engagement in Research & Innovation (2024–2025) has explored how the public can be more involved in research and innovation, to develop European guidelines and policy recommendations. The final report will be presented at an open seminar on 1 April in Brussels. Public & Science has participated as a national expert in the initiative. Read more.

Our recent activities

Soil health and sustainable food production in focus at Lund University
What changes are needed for sustainable food production? What are the political and economic factors shaping land use? These questions were the focus of two panel discussions organised by Public & Science at Lund University, as part of the EU LOESS project. The events brought together researchers, farmers and students to discuss soil health challenges and the future of agriculture. Read more.

GENDERACTIONplus conference calls for stronger equality in European research
How is the ongoing gender backlash affecting work on inclusive gender equality in European research? This and much more was discussed during the GENDERACTIONplus final conference in Brussels on 13 February. The conference is available to watch online. Read more.

Blog: PhD student reflects on Borrow a Researcher experience
In 2024, Samantha López Clinton, a PhD student at the Swedish Museum of Natural History, visited 10 schools across Sweden, both online and in person, through Public & Science’s Borrow a Researcher initiative. In this blog, she shares the insights and skills she gained from this rewarding experience. Read more.

Blog: Navigating the world of science communication
At the end of a one month internship with Public & Science, PhD student Nils Simon reflects on his experience and the valuable insights gained into the role of researchers in society, the importance of public trust in science, and how clear communication helps bridge the gap between research and the public. Read more.

Winner of Researchers’ Grand Prix’s school visit inspires future scientists
In January, Researchers' Grand Prix winner Luís Oliveira visited Järva Gymnasium in Stockholm, captivating students with his journey into academia and insights into stem cell research. Students eagerly asked about his daily life as a researcher, salary expectations, and the future of cancer research.  Read more.

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