Science et Cité

Based in the Swiss capital of Bern, Science et Cité operates at the unique intersection of research and public life. Switzerland, with its strong tradition of direct democracy and a highly educated populace, presents a distinct environment for science communication. Citizens are regularly called upon to vote on complex scientific and technological issues, from genetic engineering to energy policy. In this context, the need for clear, trustworthy, and accessible information is not just a nicety but a democratic necessity. Founded in 1998 and headquartered at 7 Laupenstrasse in Bern, Science et Cité has spent over two decades addressing this need, working to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general public across the country's four language regions.

A Mission of Dialogue, Not Monologue

Science et Cité is structured as a non-profit foundation, which fundamentally shapes its approach. Its core mission is to foster a genuine two-way conversation between science and society. This means moving beyond traditional public relations that simply broadcasts scientific achievements. Instead, the foundation creates spaces for mutual learning, where scientists gain a better understanding of societal concerns and citizens can engage critically with scientific goals and impacts. This philosophy is embedded in all its projects, from school programs targeting children and adolescents to public events like the Wissenschaftscafé Bern. The foundation's work is particularly notable for its commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that dialogue happens not just in university halls but in community centers, schools, and digital platforms across Switzerland.

Core Services and Specialties

Science et Cité's service offering is tailored to the specific challenge of making science accessible and relevant. Their expertise is concentrated in areas that promote active participation and understanding. Based on their public projects and stated mission, their primary capabilities include:

• Wissenschaftskommunikation (Science Communication): Developing and executing strategies to communicate complex scientific topics to diverse, non-expert audiences.
• Innovative Dialogveranstaltungen (Innovative Dialogue Events): Designing and moderating formats like science cafés, public forums, and workshops that encourage open discussion.
• Dialog mit Kindern und Jugendlichen (Dialogue with Children and Youth): Creating age-appropriate programs and materials to spark curiosity and scientific literacy in young people.
• Citizen Science: Designing and managing projects that involve the public in the scientific research process, from data collection to analysis.
• Digitale Interaktion (Digital Interaction): Using online platforms and tools to facilitate science-society dialogue and reach broader, more digitally native audiences.
• Public Relations & Communications Services: Providing strategic advice and implementation for research institutions and partners looking to improve their public engagement.

Who They Serve and Where They Operate

Science et Cité's primary clients and partners are major Swiss universities, research institutions, and public bodies. They collaborate extensively with organizations like the ETH Domain, the Swiss National Science Foundation, and universities across Bern, Zurich, and Lausanne. The foundation's work is truly national in scope, with dedicated branches in French-speaking Switzerland and Ticino, ensuring linguistic and cultural relevance. While they are not a traditional PR agency for corporate clients, they serve as an essential communications partner for any entity in Switzerland that needs to build trust, facilitate public understanding, or engage citizens in a meaningful dialogue about science and technology. Their expertise is invaluable for navigating the sensitive and often politically charged landscape of public opinion on scientific matters.

Science et Cité is an ideal partner for universities, research consortia, and public organizations that prioritize genuine engagement over simple publicity. They are best suited for clients who understand that effective science communication requires patience, creativity, and a deep respect for the public's intelligence and concerns. For any Swiss institution looking to strengthen its social license to operate, foster democratic knowledge formation, or inspire the next generation of scientists, Science et Cité in Bern offers a proven, thoughtful, and highly respected model for building that essential bridge between the lab and the living room.