The Thought Leader series: Interviewing esteemed global thinkers
At Research Outreach, we strive to showcase a wealth of cutting-edge research from across the sciences and beyond. As part of this uniquely exciting remit, we run the ‘Thought Leader’ series, interviewing esteemed thinkers, researchers, and communicators from world-leading organisations and a diverse array of disciplines. These interviews afford our readers the rare opportunity to hear about the latest research first-hand, and perhaps more importantly, to learn about the inspiring personal stories behind the studies.
We believe it is essential to remain mindful of the human dimension of contemporary research. Our Thought Leader interviews therefore offer leading scientists and researchers the chance to step back from the nuances of their work, and to speak candidly about their motivations, successes, and hopes for the future. Having conducted over 60 interviews with leading conservationists, psychiatrists, CEOs and even novelists, we are now able to look back at some of the interviews that inspired, provoked, and challenged us.
The Winton Centre: A vital time for nuanced risk communication
Many of our greatest interviews have been concerned with the joys, frustrations, and ever-increasing importance of trustworthy science communication. We spoke to Dr Alexandra Freeman, Executive Director of the Winton Centre at the University of Cambridge. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centre became integral to communication efforts regarding public health and disease risk. Dr Freeman spoke about the subtle but vital differences between ‘informing’ and ‘persuading’ when it comes to health communication. 
The Open Notebook and the art of science journalism
Siri Carpenter is the editor-in-chief of the Open Notebook, a website and publication which ensures science, health and environmental journalists have the requisite skills and assistance to convey their message. The interview was a highly useful read for any science writers keen to hone their craft.
Over the past two decades, The Orangutan Project has made huge strides towards countering the existential threats faced by the orangutan population. We interviewed Founder and President Leif Cocks about the vital work he is undertaking. We also discussed the broader biocentric ethics that underpin his conservation work.
Nesta: Collective intelligence, people-powered results and experimentation
Experts at the Nesta foundation are using research-based evidence to devise frameworks and programmes to solve some of Europe’s trickiest public conundrums. We interviewed senior researchers and directors within Nesta about the work the foundation are undertaking.
High pressure talk with Professor Rhian Touyz
The Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Science (ICAMS) at the University of Glasgow is dedicated to discovering the mechanisms of cardiovascular disease (CVD), in a world-leading quest to advance new treatments. We were honoured to interview Professor Rhian Touyz about the work of the institute, and about her own research into hypertension.
The Money View: An interview with Professor Perry Mehrling
Our Thought Leader interviews are by no means confined to the sciences. In this interview, we spoke with leading economic historian Professor Perry Mehrling, about his approach to monetary economics, called the Money View. Mehrling also spoke about the role teaching has played in the formulation of his thought.
We are incredibly excited about the interviews we have lined up for the coming months. We remain committed to bringing you unique personal insights into the life and work of the world’s preeminent thinkers. As always, conversation is key to these interviews, so if you have anything you’d like to ask, just get in touch us through our social media channels!