From Research Results to Societal Impact – Why Scientific Visibility Matters
The success of research does not end with the publication of its results. For scientific discoveries to make a meaningful impact on the economy, industry, and society, they must reach the right audiences through clear, accessible, and credible communication. This perspective was at the heart of a professional event organised by the University Research and Innovation Center (EKIK) at Obuda University.
Scientific Excellence and Visibility Go Hand in Hand
As part of the Celebration of Hungarian Science, the event entitled “Scientific Visibility – Communication and Dissemination for Early-Career Researchers” took place on 5 November 2026.
One of the event’s key messages was that high-quality research and effective scientific communication are mutually reinforcing. A new discovery, innovative technology, or scientific method can achieve broader impact when relevant professional communities and stakeholders understand its significance.
Scientific visibility therefore goes far beyond the number of publications or a researcher’s professional recognition. It can contribute to new collaborations, stronger industry partnerships, knowledge transfer, and the practical application of research results.
How Can Researchers Increase Their Visibility?
The event’s speakers explored the opportunities and challenges of scientific communication from different perspectives.
Dr. Gyula Péter Szigeti, Vice-Rector for Scientific Coordination at Obuda University; Dr. Attila Biró, Research Fellow at EKIK; Dr. László Berek, Director of the University Library; and Sorel Kembe, actor and communication expert, addressed various aspects of scientific performance, publication strategies, researcher identity, and effective communication.
The presentations highlighted several areas that are particularly important for researchers, especially those at the beginning of their academic careers:
- Publication strategy: Selecting appropriate scientific journals and publication channels to maximise research visibility and impact.
- Researcher visibility: Building a credible professional identity and establishing a strong presence within the scientific community.
- Science communication: Presenting complex research findings in a way that is accessible to broader audiences while maintaining scientific accuracy.
- Networking and collaboration: Engaging effectively with academic communities, industry partners, and other relevant stakeholders.
Research as News – Bringing Science Beyond the Laboratory
One of the event’s particularly engaging perspectives was presented by Sorel Kembe in his lecture entitled “Research as News – Media, Marketing and the Consumer Perspective.”
One of the fundamental challenges of science communication is making complex, highly specialised research understandable and relevant to audiences without a scientific background.
Achieving this requires more than simply shortening a scientific publication. Researchers need to identify the key message that demonstrates why their work matters, what challenges it addresses, and how its findings could influence everyday life.
Social media, digital communication platforms, and personal branding offer researchers new opportunities to share their work and engage with wider audiences.
Importantly, scientific credibility and accessibility are not mutually exclusive. Effective communication can make the significance of research more visible without compromising its academic integrity.
Why Communication Matters for Early-Career Researchers
At the beginning of an academic career, the ability to establish professional connections, select suitable publication platforms, and communicate research activities effectively can play a decisive role in long-term professional development.
Strategic communication supports not only individual career progression but also international research collaboration, interdisciplinary partnerships, and the identification of new innovation opportunities.
From this perspective, the event organised by EKIK provided valuable insights into how researchers can develop a more conscious and strategic approach to their scientific presence.
By strengthening their communication skills, early-career researchers can increase the visibility of their work, expand their professional networks, and contribute more effectively to the broader research and innovation ecosystem.
Scientific Visibility Is Not the Goal – It Is a Means to Greater Impact
One of the most important takeaways from the event was that scientific visibility should not be considered an end in itself.
Its true value lies in its ability to facilitate the practical application of research findings, encourage new professional partnerships, and strengthen the role of science in society.
For the University Research and Innovation Center (EKIK) at Obuda University, promoting research results and supporting scientific collaboration are closely connected to its broader commitment to innovation.
After all, science can make a meaningful difference when new knowledge is not only created but also reaches those who can develop it further, apply it in practice, and transform it into lasting value for society.
Read more about the event on the official Obuda University website:
