From England to Denmark – A New Approach to Research
David Owen has spent the past 15 years working in public engagement in the UK. At this Republikken Community Breakfast, we had the pleasure of meeting David and learning about his mission: making research more relevant to society. Instead of letting governments decide research priorities from the top down, his work ensures that the public has a say in shaping how research funding is spent. The goal is a more democratic research system—one that reflects the needs and concerns of the people it ultimately serves.
Why Does It Matter?
Research influences everything—from healthcare policies to climate solutions—but too often, it happens behind closed doors. Public engagement helps break down these barriers. By involving communities, businesses, and policymakers in discussions about research priorities, David ensures that science doesn’t just stay in academic journals but has real-world impact. In the UK, this approach has gained significant traction, shifting how universities and funding bodies interact with the public.
Bringing the Movement to Denmark
Now, David is looking to bring a similar model to Denmark. However, he has noticed that public engagement here is still in its early stages. Most initiatives focus on science communication—telling people about research rather than involving them in shaping it. His goal? To push the conversation further. He has already started reaching out to universities, organizations, and funding bodies, hoping to build a network that fosters meaningful dialogue between researchers and the public.
What Does He Need to Succeed?
Starting something new in a foreign country is never easy. David is currently in the process of establishing himself in Denmark—both personally and professionally. He’s looking for collaborators, researchers, and institutions interested in exploring more participatory approaches to research. He’s also on the lookout for funding opportunities and—on a more practical note—a place to live in Copenhagen.
If you know of anyone working in public engagement, policy, or research, drop him a message. Because democratizing science isn’t a one-person job—it’s a community effort.