In Dutch
Why hiking?
Slow Science Hikes offers academics a relaxed setting in which to meet peers at different stages of their careers (from PhDs to professors) and active in a wide variety of disciplines. The informal walks encourage a form of open communication in which silences are not accompanied by embarrassment and there is opportunity for in-depth interdisciplinary conversations – without the pressure to generate immediate output.
Walking in nature has also been shown to have a positive impact on both physical and mental health. Not only does it improve physical stamina but it also reduces stress, lightens moods, and stimulates cognitive functions, all of which are beneficial for the creative process underpinning quality research.
The Young Academy hopes that these hikes will become a creative laboratory for “slow science”, in which ideas percolate for interdisciplinary partnerships and academics can slow down and create space for themselves for reflection, creativity and innovation. The Young Academy also intends this project to communicate to administrators the importance of allowing leeway in their organisations for slow science.
Serendipity
One of the valuable aspects of these hikes is serendipity. Not knowing in advance who your hiking partners will be or what topics you will be discussing can lead to unexpected connections and spark unanticipated insights. Innovative partnerships and new directions for research may result, contributing to diversity in scholarly and scientific exploration.
Ecological dimension
Slow Science Hikes also have an ecological dimension. By spending time in nature, we increase the participants’ awareness of the eco-crisis the world is facing, one in which there is an active role for science. The Young Academy hopes that the hikes will encourage researchers to think more about the relationship between their own discipline and this ecological crisis and foster interdisciplinary partnerships on this topic.
Practical information
Who is it for?
All academic staff employed at universities in the Netherlands are welcome to join these hikes. International academics are particularly welcome, as this is an ideal opportunity to get to know the Netherlands better and build a broader social network.
Where?
The hikes will take place in nature areas close to university locations. The routes are between 10 and 20 kilometres. There will be suitable restaurants or cafes along the route where participants can stop for lunch (at their own expense). All hikes will start and end at an NS railway station.
When?
📅 Friday 10 April
🕰️ 11.00 (departure is at 11:15)
🗺️ Starting point: NS-station Den Haag CS
🗺️ End point: Wassenaar (you can take the bus back to Den Haag CS)
🚶 13 km
Register here
Updates
Currently there are no new hikes scheduled. For more information get in touch via dja@knaw.nl.