Communicating contested science in a polarized world: portrayals of scientists, experiences with science communication, and recommendations to increase engagement

<p dir="ltr">Recently, societal polarization over science has increased markedly and scientists communicating about their research risk being drawn into controversies. Therefore, the focus of this thesis is on science communication of contested science (climate change, vaccines, or GMOs). The thesis comprises three qualitative studies all applying thematic analysis. Through 84 articles and their associated comment sections, the first study investigates how journalists and their readers perceive scientists and their science. Two dominant groups were observed: A pro-science group (commentators and journalists) and a contra-science group (nearly exclusively commentators). How these groups represent scientists and their science are used to justify either support or opposition. Understanding how non-experts perceive scientists could help improve science communication, which may be the first step toward decreasing societal polarization over contested science. The second study investigates scientists’ views on and experiences of collaborating with journalists and engaging in science communication about contested science. 27 interviews were conducted. The identified themes highlight perceived benefits and challenges of engaging in science communication and working with journalists, as well as perspectives on training, motivations, and the public. Understanding scientists’ experiences and views is needed before more effective science communication interventions can be formulated and science communication engagement can be increased. The last study builds on the findings from the two prior studies and crystalizes the main barriers impacting science communication engagement. Themes were identified after conducting a second exploration of the two datasets and present scientists, journalists, and readers’ views of science communication output and scientists’ skills as communicators. This study also shows how harassment and threats highlight the need for a safety net and support. Finally, the insights gained from the three studies enabled the formulation of eight recommendations aimed at enhancing science communication preparedness and engagement</p>