The Public Engagement with Research team sits within the University’s Regional Engagement group, contributing to its work on policy outreach, Civic University Agreements, and community collaboration. But why are these activities so essential for our region?
Impact of a Local Eco-Hub on Pro-Environmental Behaviour, Community Inclusion and Wellbeing
Dr Louise Venables shares insights into a recent collaborative project, working with Dr Daniel Derbyshire, and Nicky Nicholls from Sideshore Community. Supported by the Engaged Participatory Research Fund, their work investigated the role of eco-hubs in engaging local communities with critical social issues.
Sidmouth Science Festival: Inspiring Scientific Curiosity in East Devon
Our team is excited to share the work of Sidmouth Science Festival, an annual 10-day showcase bringing the work of STEM subjects to audiences of all ages and walks of life. This year’s events, taking place from the 10th to the 19th October will feature academics from the University of Exeter and beyond, each committed to sharing their passion for science.
Engaging Communities with Climate Science: Exeter Climate Forum
The inaugural Exeter Climate Forum, hosted by the University of Exeter in conjunction with the Met Office, brought prominent academics, policymakers, businesses, and young people to its conference events in Exeter. Alongside these main events, a diverse range of community activities were delivered to engage local voices in these pivotal discussions.
In Video: The Public Engagement Strategic Advisory Group (PEG)
The University’s Public Engagement Strategic Advisory Group (PEG) has launched a short video series, highlighting the valuable public engagement work taking place around the University, and the benefits of community collaboration both for researchers, and for the audiences they engage.
Pint of Science: Bringing Exeter Science to a PUBlic Audience
The Public Engagement with Research team is proud to have supported Exeter’s contribution to Pint of Science 2025, an international initiative bringing cutting-edge research to new audiences in local pubs. Dr Harry Green, coordinator for Exeter’s events, shares his experience delivering this year’s festival and continuing to build on its success.
Creative Outreach: The Role of Art in Public Engagement
Working with artists and creatives forms an important part of our work in Public Engagement with Research. Whether it’s celebrating Exeter’s murals, or offering training on creative approaches to research, art forms a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academia and local communities.
Medical Mycology and Textile Art
Ange Brennan, Public Engagement and Communications Manager for the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, speaks to us about an ongoing collaboration between mycology researchers and Exeter College. This project invites the college’s textile students to explore the Centre’s research through art, giving both students and academics new insights into their work.
PROTECT Study Ambassador Initiative
Kelly Kleinstuber tells us about her public engagement work for the PROTECT project, a nationwide study investigating ageing brain health. With support from the Springboard Fund, this wide-reaching project has brought in new public involvement through its PPI Ambassador programme.
Collaboration and Celebration with the VCSE Sector
Last week, our team had the privilege of co-facilitating ‘Community Research: Exploring & Celebrating Collaboration’, a showcase dedicated to community-based research in the South West. Supported by the University of Exeter and the Devon Research Engagement Network, this event offered people from across the academic and voluntary sectors the chance to connect, and share valuable insights into their work.