Speakers
Description
Research Infrastructures (RI) have a number of ways to measure impact. Beyond publications, citations and technological advances, their true value comes from how they connect communities, inspire innovation, shape policy, build talent and expand access to cutting-edge technologies. To reach further into diverse scientific domains and local research communities and amplify impact, Euro-BioImaging ERIC launched a Scientific Ambassador Programme in 2024. The Ambassadors, more than 20 outstanding Early Career Researchers embedded in institutes and disciplines across Europe, act as trusted connectors, enabling a greater understanding of Euro-BioImaging services in communities we may not otherwise be able to reach, and making imaging technologies more accessible for everyone. In turn, Euro-BioImaging helps the Ambassadors grow their networks, gives them visibility, and helps them build new skills. A win-win situation that defies traditional metrics, but provides real-world impact, one person at a time.
From Spring 2024 - Spring 2025, we ran the first cohort of our Ambassador programme, with twelve selected Scientific Ambassadors, who carried out impactful activities: attended conferences, organised seminars & outreach events, published articles in scientific journals and on online platforms, and contributed to diverse outreach campaigns. In addition, Ambassadors served on the EVOLVE Job Shadowing Selection Committee and the EVOLVE Call for Event Proposals Selection Committee, taking an active role in Euro-BioImaging’s operations, providing valuable external viewpoints that enrich decision-making.
The programme's scalability is clear: in December 2024, the second call for Ambassadors attracted significant interest, with 78 applications from 29 countries. The newly selected cohort of 11 Ambassadors further increases geographic and gender diversity, embedding Euro-BioImaging more deeply in regional communities. By participating in events, engaging peers at their institutes and domains, visiting Euro-BioImaging Nodes to interview technical staff and raising awareness about the opportunities available through Euro-BioImaging and of the diversity of careers in imaging core facilities, the Ambassadors multiply the impact of outreach and strengthen the Euro-BioImaging network.
This talk will explore the development of the Euro-BioImaging Scientific Ambassador programme, from its conception to implementation to daily operations. We will share a few of our favourite moments, highlight some lessons learned, and expose some ways we are measuring the impact of this programme – both for Euro-BioImaging’s visibility and for the Ambassadors’ professional growth.
EVOLVE is funded by the European Union grant agreement no. #101130986.
