In 2019, the world will mark 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall. This important anniversary has us wondering: what walls in science need to be broken down? And what is our responsibility, as science communicators, in helping to demolish them?

If only the walls of science could talk….

Scientific research affects us all, whether we are students or researchers, interested in science or not, regardless of nationality. Yet, many people feel like science is not ‘for’ them. There are walls keeping them from learning about, engaging with, or contributing to the science that impacts their daily lives, the science that they’re interested in, and the science that they have opinions on.

By naming what those walls are, it is possible to raise awareness in our community and start a conversation about how to break them down.

In a world where language and naming are power, silence is oppression, is violence. — Adrienne Rich

The authors and creators of “If the Walls of Science Could Talk…” are a group of students on the MSc Science Communication course at Imperial College London. We have been studying the social contexts of science and thinking about how science can be made more accessible and engaging for everyone.

We have set up an impromptu exhibition around Imperial College London by identifying aspects of the campus that represent the various walls in science today. By scanning QR codes placed on the features we have identified, visitors can read about the wall in science we’ve found represented on campus, and consider their role in combating it.

In a time where the world is obsessed with building them, we must work towards breaking down the walls in science.

“If Walls Could Talk” was created by students in the MSc Science Communication Course at Imperial College London. All views are our own and do not reflect the views of the Science Communication Unit or Imperial College London. All photos are our own.