FINSCI project's science communication competition "Mitä iloa?"
The value of science is clear to researchers and to those who work with it. Yet today, science is facing unprecedented challenges. Misinformation is widespread, and trust in traditional knowledge-producing institutions is declining.
The FINSCI research project, which studies and supports the science capital of people in Finland, proposes that we approach this challenge through joy.
Mitä iloa? is a science communication competition inviting ideas on how science could bring joy to people’s lives.
Proposed ideas could take the form of installations, exhibitions, performances, or any other experiences. They might focus on scientific thinking, research methods, or particular fields of science. For instance, how could physics, history, or computer science bring joy? Or how might an MRI scanner or an interview-based research project inspire joy?
Applications are open to teams of up to three people. If the idea includes spoken or written language, it should be in Finnish. The winning idea will be realised as part of the FINSCI project’s final event in September 2026.
The evaluation criteria are:
1) The idea inspires as much joy in science as possible to the visitor or participant
2) The idea can be realised on a moderate budget
3) The idea can be built within 48 hours
4) The idea can be experienced within half an hour
If needed, artists and developers will be invited to support the idea creators. The implementation team will receive a fee and reimbursement for travel costs to Helsinki.
Would you like to hear more?
Watch the recording of the online meeting, where Katri Saarikivi, the FINSCI project’s engagement coordinator, shared examples of fun science events.
Apply now!
The application period ends on 15 May 2026. The winning idea will be selected by the end of May 2026.