A model of “science communication” against scientific disinformation

With the decision taken by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK), “science communication offices” were established in universities, and Altınbaş University was one of the first universities to establish an office in this context. “Science communication offices aim to increase visibility in international rankings while also taking measures against disinformation on scientific issues,” said Assoc. Prof. Hakan Kaygusuz, Dean of Research at the university.

“Countries that give importance to science communication have an advantage”

Pointing out the importance of science communication in bringing academic knowledge to the public and increasing public confidence in science, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kaygusuz said: “Countries that can use science communication effectively experience the advantages of this. These include the spread of R&D culture, combating disinformation, economic benefits and the use of soft power through science diplomacy. For example, products produced in countries that excel in science communication are perceived as durable and of high quality, and are therefore highly sought after. Similarly, universities and institutions that can use science communication in the right way are held in high esteem both in academic circles and in society.”

“It is also a measure against interest groups”

Stating that another area where science communication is important is the fight against disinformation, Assoc. Prof. Kaygusuz said: “While there are mechanisms to verify disinformation in political issues, there are some problems in dealing with disinformation in scientific issues. There are two reasons for this. The first reason is that scientific and technological issues require a high level of expertise and cannot be explained in a simple way at first glance. So much so that even academics working in the same scientific field sometimes have difficulty in fully grasping issues in sub-branches that require advanced expertise. The second reason is that due to the complex nature of scientific issues, people who seek profit and feed on disinformation can manipulate the masses in this field by using scientific language.”

Adding that although there are efforts of our institutions, especially TÜBİTAK, and universities in science communication, there is still a long way to go, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan Kaygusuz continued his words as follows:

“In order to encourage stronger participation of universities in these activities, a Science Communication Office meeting was held by YÖK in Ankara in February 2025. Science Communication Offices at each university aim to strengthen the connection between science and society. Another goal is to increase the visibility of our universities in international rankings by making their scientific work understandable and accessible. Altınbaş University, the first foundation university to establish a Research Dean's Office, was one of the first universities to establish a Science Communication Office within the scope of this call. With the cooperation of the Department of Corporate Communication and Promotion and the Dean of Research, efforts to increase the visibility of scientific activities will be carried out at the standard required by YÖK.”