Twins in Focus: Bridging Science and Society

• Grant number: 25/14761-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Journalism
• Start date: October 01, 2026
• End date: September 30, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Humanities - Psychology - Experimental Psychology
• Principal Investigator: Emma Otta
• Grantee: Wanise Dionisio Martinez
• Host Institution: Instituto de Psicologia (IP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Instituto De Psicologia, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/02107-6 - The University of São Paulo twin panel: research on twins' behavior, health, and well-being, AP.TEM

Abstract

This proposal is part of the FAPESP Thematic Project "Painel USP de Gêmeos: pesquisas sobre comportamento, saúde e bem-estar de gêmeos," which brings together faculty members from the Institute of Psychology (IPUSP), the School of Dentistry (FOUSP), and the Faculty of Medicine of the University of São Paulo. The project's main objective is to investigate twin behavior and its relationships with health and well-being from an ontogenetic perspective. The scientific journalism fellowship aims to develop activities for public dissemination and science communication of the project's results and ongoing activities, fostering closer engagement between science and society. Various communication strategies will be implemented, including the production of a periodic newsletter distributed via social media and digital platforms; the organization of CineUsp Gêmeos, a series of film screenings followed by interdisciplinary discussions on the theme; and the preparation of press releases and journalistic articles to enhance media coverage and encourage active participation in the press. Science event outreach will be strengthened with an emphasis on audience engagement to increase access to knowledge generated by twin-related research, which is fundamental for understanding key aspects of human development and health. Expected impacts include broadening the audience interested in the research, creating new communication channels, and promoting greater integration between researchers and the public-contributing to the accessible and engaging dissemination of scientific knowledge. This initiative aims to enhance the social and academic visibility of the Painel USP de Gêmeos, reinforcing commitments to scientific transparency and public access to knowledge, as well as supporting the training of professionals skilled in science communication. (AU)