Portret Aart van Stekelenburg
Portret Aart van Stekelenburg

Meet one of the OC members: Aart

I work as an Assistant Professor in Communication Science. My main interest lies in science communication, particularly in understanding why people sometimes believe things that contradict scientific evidence and how we can communicate science effectively to ensure people are well-informed. I focus especially on controversial topics such as climate change and vaccinations. In my teaching, I also engage with science communication, alongside a strong emphasis on methods and statistics. Additionally, I teach an exciting new course on analysing data from social media (Analyzing Social Media Data).

Do you have a tip for unwinding during or after work?

Make use of our beautiful campus! Especially with spring approaching, a walk through the forest can be very refreshing. For a short, active break, you’re welcome to join me for a game of table tennis on the 4th floor.

Why did you join the OC?

I realised that I often had opinions about various issues, but complaining from the sidelines isn’t always helpful. So now, I try to be constructively critical (or encouraging!) within the OC. My main focus is on the Recognition & Rewards initiative. A lot of valuable insights are being developed, and I want to help ensure that we actually put them to good use. 

Bonus question: What’s your favorite spot on campus and why?

My office! I’m lucky to be on the 4th floor (south wing) in the outer ring, with a view of the forest. We often see woodpeckers and even our campus buzzards flying by—it’s impossible not to be happy with a view like that!

Do you have a matter or suggestion you’d like to discuss with the OC? Feel free to have a chat with him, or email OC [at] socsci.ru.nl (OC[at]socsci[dot]ru[dot]nl).