This conference explores the diverse potential of citizen science to drive education, innovation, creativity, and policy impact—while also addressing the challenges that come with it. Sessions will highlight how citizen science enriches learning by engaging students in real-world research, how AI technologies can enhance participation and data use, and how collaborations with artists open new paths for community engagement and co-creation. We will also delve into barriers to inclusion, data ethics, and the difficulty of influencing policy, particularly in under-resourced or politically unstable contexts. Through practical examples and current research, the program offers insights into building stronger, more inclusive, and impactful citizen science initiatives.
Photo: vog.photo
Conference
New Pathways: AI, Art, and Collaboration in Citizen Science—#AI, Art, Policy
POSTCITY, First Floor, Education Stage
Welcome & Opening Remarks
Gefion Thuermer (GB)
The first session of the day explores real-world examples and current research on integrating AI into citizen science.
Minds, Hands, and Machines in Citizen Science: From Uncertainty to Participation
Marisa Ponti (IT/SE)
During her talk, Marisa Ponti will challenge designers and researchers to build the next generation of AI for citizen science by posing five transformative questions, inviting the audience to join a critical dialogue on the path forward.
Artificial Intelligence in Citizen Science
Aleksandra Berditchevskaia (GB), Dilek Fraisl (AT), Gefion Thuermer (GB), Sofie Burgos-Thorsen (DK)
The challenges of AI technologies in relation to citizen science projects are multifaceted. In this panel conversation, experts will focus on and discuss ethical and legal aspects based on practical examples, faced challenges, and applied methodologies.
IMPETUS Demo Day
Agostina Bianchi (ES)
IMPETUS Demo Day reinvents the classic startup pitch event to spotlight citizen science initiatives working on urgent societal and environmental challenges. It emphasizes the power of citizen-driven innovation to create meaningful and lasting impact.
Citizen Science in Artistic Research and Practice
Antonella Passani (IT), Jennifer Kanary (NL), Josep Perelló (ES), Willie Ng’ang’a (KE)
This panel explores how citizen science and artistic research can join forces to create fresh ways of engaging communities, fostering dialogue, and inspiring innovation. Panelists will share strategies, methodologies, and lessons learned from projects that treat art and science as equal partners.
Does Citizen Science Increase Empowerment or Neoliberalism? Some Thoughts to Share
Katrin Vohland (DE/AT)
Drawing from her own experiences as well as literature, Katrin Vohland will talk about the changing role of citizen science amidst the current rapid development in the digital sector.
Citizen Science in Policy, for Commons, as Activism
Alexandra Albert (GB), Ivana Radović (RS), Katrin Vohland (DE/AT), Sarah Williams (US)
The day’s final session will examine systemic challenges, spotlight stories where participant protection, stable resources, and clear strategies made the difference, and explore what it takes to turn citizen science into a true engine for policy change and social transformation.
Closing Remarks
Vanessa Hannesschläger (EU)
Vanessa Hannesschläger will close the conference with a concise wrap up, weaving together key insights from the sessions.
