Leiden University Innovates PhD Ceremonies with Introductory Lay Talks from September – BNN Breaking

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Leiden University Innovates PhD Ceremonies with Introductory Lay Talks from September
Starting this autumn, PhD ceremonies in Leiden University’s venerable Academy Building are set for a significant change. From 1 September, candidates will kick off their defence with a lay talk, a ten-minute presentation in plain language aimed at making their complex research accessible to family, friends, and other non-specialists. This move is not just about simplifying the academic discourse but also about bridging the gap between scholarly work and societal relevance.
The introduction of lay talks is the brainchild of Lucia Grijpink, a PhD candidate at the Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), who was inspired by a similar experience at a defence ceremony in Amsterdam. The realization that such an approach was not customary in Leiden spurred Grijpink to pen an opinion piece in the university’s Mare magazine, advocating for the broader communication of PhD research. The article resonated with many, including Max van Haastrecht, the PhD representative on the University Council, who saw it as an opportunity to underscore the societal impact of academic research. Their collaboration and proposal to the Doctorate Board and the Beadle’s Office paved the way for this innovative change, albeit with logistical adjustments to accommodate the extra time needed for these talks.
The implementation of lay talks reflects a growing recognition of the need for researchers to communicate the relevance and impact of their work beyond the academic community. Rector Magnificus Hester Bijl praised the initiative, emphasizing that the ability to convey research findings to a non-specialist audience is an integral part of a researcher’s skill set. Moreover, this change arrives at a crucial time when the value and impact of university research are under increasing scrutiny. By allowing PhD candidates to share the essence and implications of their research in an accessible manner, Leiden University is taking a proactive step towards demonstrating the tangible benefits of scholarly work to society.
This adjustment to the PhD defence format at Leiden University is more than just an administrative change; it represents a shift towards greater inclusivity and societal engagement in academic research. By dedicating time for lay talks, the university acknowledges the importance of making scientific knowledge understandable and relevant to the wider public. This approach not only benefits the non-specialist audience members but also encourages candidates to think creatively about the broader implications of their work. As Grijpink and Van Haastrecht highlight, this is an opportunity to foster a more engaging and meaningful dialogue between academia and society.
As Leiden University prepares to roll out this new format, the anticipation among future PhD candidates like Grijpink is palpable. The introduction of lay talks is a testament to the university’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and societal impact. It marks a step forward in demystifying academic research and reinforcing the link between scholarly endeavors and their real-world applications. As this initiative takes root, it may well set a precedent for other institutions to follow, further bridging the gap between academia and the broader public.

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