Practice and Enlightenment of Foreign Main Funding Agencies in Promoting Scientists’ Engagement in Science Communication postprint

Abstract: As scientists have a deeper understanding of science than other groups, they are irreplaceable in science communication. Funding agencies, which are important part of science system, are gradually devoted to promoting scientists’ engagement in science communication, in order to strengthen the mutual relationship between science and society. This study investigates the practice of several funding agencies in promoting scientists’ engagement in science communication, such as proposing initiatives and policies, offering fundings, setting up awards, and providing technical supports. Based on it, this study further discusses that the roles should funding agencies take, and tries to bring up policy suggestions in the light of current situations. The suggestions are listed as followed: introducing guidance policy documents, proposing measurements of promoting scientists’ engagement in science communication, offering small amounts but more flexible fundings, setting up awards for scientists’ achievements in the science communication, and cooperating with other organizations.