By awarding an honorary doctorate, the Open University wants to show its appreciation for prof. Dr. Ionica Smeets’ efforts to make science accessible to a wide audience. With books for adults and children, TV programs and lectures, with which he reaches a large audience, as well as with his research in science communication. Rector Magnificus Theo Bastiaens: “The accessibility of science is completely in line with the basic values of an open university. Doing scientific research that affects society is very important. And good science communication ensures that society also knows what change or added value or knowledge this research brings us, Ionica Smeets confirms connection between research and society and improves science communication through his research!”
Cum laude from the master’s degree in applied mathematics
Ionica Smeets (1979) graduated with a master’s degree in applied mathematics from Delft University of Technology in 2005, a doctorate from Leiden University in 2010 and has been a professor of science communication there since 2015. In her chair, Ionica Smeets studies the gap between experts and the general public. What goes wrong when these groups communicate with each other? And what can scientists do to improve this process?
Independent science reporter
In addition to his work at Leiden University, he is an independent science journalist and writes columns for de Volkskrant. Together with Alex Verkade, he is the head of the new National Center for Science and Society (NEWS) on behalf of the outgoing Minister of Education, Culture and Science, Robert Dijkgraaf. This should strengthen the possibilities and effectiveness of science communication.
In 2023, Ionica Smeets received the Iris medal for excellent science communication. On television, he was, among other things, a (joint) presenter National science competition in Eureka. He also gives lectures and has written several books. The children’s book Rekenen voor je leven, which Smeets made with Edward van de Vendel and Floor de Goede, has been awarded a silver griffel and a bronze, and is now published in six languages.
40e dies natalis
The honorary doctorate will be awarded in connection with the 40th anniversary of the Open University on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The honorary supervisor is Professor Dr. Ir Petra de Weerd-Nederhof, technology-driven ecosystem innovation and dean of the Faculty of Science.
Author: National Education Guide
Photo: Ivar Pel