Scientific research is an inseparable part of society. The resources needed to conduct scientific research are provided by society, and ultimately the achievements of science must benefit society--whether it be through new discoveries, improved methodologies, or sharing our expertise. The success and sustainability of our research depend crucially on building closer and more effective connections across different social groups. Modern scientists need to learn why society invests in our work, how we may deliver a return on this investment, and how we can best support society through both tranquil times and times of crisis. How do we ensure the sustainability of science in society? How do we improve science literacy? As a community, we need to learn how to communicate to the public and policymakers in a manner that is most effective, and adapt to changing demographic and economic pressures in order to successfully recruit and cultivate the next generation of scientists.

This symposium urges us to consider what the role of science in society is and, by extension, how scientists should prioritize their time between research and societal engagement. This will be achieved by providing the cultural, historical and overall societal context of the meaning of science--including the roles of policy, advocacy, funding systems, and science communication--by expert scientists and non-scientists who work at the interface of science, government, the private sector and society at large. The symposium will include lectures and panel discussions as well as hands-on workshops to help kickstart activities that provide utility beyond the symposium itself.