Performances, games, Internet platforms, interactive exhibitions... A dialogue between science and society can be stimulated by many different ways and means. Some of them can now be put into practice through participation in the Agora programme. Of the 77 project proposals submitted, the SNSF has approved 17 projects requesting a total amount of 2.1 million Swiss francs. This corresponds to around 21% of the total requested amount.

Crucial criteria
Projects  were selected on the basis of the fundamental criterion of promoting dialogue and interaction between researchers and the public. The following additional criteria also played an important role in the evaluation: methods of communication geared to the target groups and contemporary society; consideration of experiences gained in other projects; a team with scientific as well as communication and pedagogical skills; a convincing and clear presentation of the project.

From metaphysics to the history of gender equality...
The SNSF has not set any requirements with regard to the target groups - families, children, pupils, young people, experts, etc. - nor with regard to the scientific fields to be covered. The approved projects will therefore stimulate dialogue on highly diverse scientific topics, such as the metaphysics of everyday objects, the history of gender equality in Switzerland, the role of the farmer in the context of climate change, risks in contemporary society, complexities and incertitudes in science, and sexual reproduction in nature.

A summary of each project will be published in the research database P3 of the SNSF after its launch. The next call for proposals for Agora will be open as of 15 May 2012. Researchers will be able to submit applications up to 15 August.