EUniWell Open Lecture Series: The FORGER Project – scientific practices in public affairs
A close connection between universities and their surrounding communities is central to EUniWell. The EUniWell Open Lecture Series highlights initiatives that strengthen dialogue between academia and society, and explore how scientific knowledge can support well‑being, participation, and democratic engagement. One of these initiatives is EUniWell Citizen Science Talks – an open lecture series exploring how citizen science can help us better understand and respond to societal challenges.
During spring 2026, the EUniWell Alliance presents a series of open lectures where experts from partner universities share perspectives on how science can engage with citizens and contribute to societal development.
About the lecture: The FORGER project at Nantes Université is part of France’s national “Science with and for Society” (SAPS) initiative, which aims to strengthen the role of science in democratic life. This approach encourages universities to build stronger connections with citizens, respond to societal expectations, and promote scientific understanding as a shared responsibility.
This lecture explores how science communication in France has evolved from traditional outreach—such as popularisation and opening academic spaces to the public—to new forms of engagement rooted in societal issues. These approaches include science shops and participatory formats that begin with public concerns and local challenges.
Within this framework, the FORGER project develops concrete methods and tools to support dialogue between researchers and citizens. A controversy observatory documents and links territorial disputes, demonstrating how scientific perspectives can help illuminate complex public debates.
About the lecturer: Laurent Devisme is Professor of Urban Studies at Nantes Université and Vice President for Sustainable Development and Scientific Mediations. His research focuses on planning practices, urban theory, and metropolitan transitions. His academic work emphasises how universities can contribute to ecological transformation and how scientific knowledge can take a more active place in public debate. The FORGER project reflects this ambition.
Astrid Corbineau is Project Manager for “Science with and for Society” at Nantes Université. She coordinates the institution’s SAPS activities and oversees the FORGER project, bringing together researchers and external partners around a research chair, mediation initiatives, and activities designed to increase awareness and understanding of scientific methods, controversies, and territorial issues.
Organised by: Nantes Université
Lectures are open to everyone who want to learn more about how countries work with citizen science in different areas.
Duration: 60 minutes, including time for questions.
Registration: No registration required.
More information on upcoming lectures in the seminar series will be published on a regular basis.
Further information:
- To the EUniWell Citizen Science Talks overview page with more information about upcoming lectures.
- To EUniWell’s website for more information about the EUniWell Citizen Science Programme.
- Read more about EUniWell – the European University for Well-Being – on EUniWell’s website.