Unveiling Impact Identities: A Path for Connecting Science and Society

Area of Science:

• Interdisciplinary science
• Societal impact studies
• Career development in STEM

Background:

• Scientists face increasing expectations for broader societal impacts beyond traditional scholarship.
• Developing a cohesive approach to societal engagement is crucial for career progression and effective contribution.
• Current frameworks may not fully address the integration of personal and professional aspects of scientific impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and define the concept of "impact identity" for scientists.
• To propose a framework for developing an integrated impact identity.
• To explore the potential benefits of impact identity for individual scientists and society.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual framework development based on existing literature in identity and impact studies.
• Integration of scholarship, societal needs, personal attributes, and institutional context.
• Analysis of potential cascading and long-term effects of adopting an impact identity.

Main Results:

• Impact identity provides a structured approach for scientists to align their work with societal needs and personal capacities.
• An integrated impact identity can lead to more effective and sustainable broader impacts throughout a scientist's career.
• This concept can enhance personal fulfillment and professional outcomes for scientists.

Conclusions:

• Developing an impact identity is a proactive strategy for scientists to maximize their societal contributions.
• Adopting impact identity can lead to improved scientific outcomes and societal benefits.
• The concept holds potential for fostering greater diversity and inclusion within the scientific community.