In October, she competed against seven other researchers from Lund University - to see who was the best at presenting their research in just four minutes, in as captivating, interesting and entertaining a way as possible. All researchers had been assisted by experts in preparing their presentations, which were assessed by a jury looking at scientific content, stage presence and communicative ability. 

For Sofie Mohlin, associate professor at the Department of Clinical Sciences, and researcher at Lund Stem Cell Center, the win in the local competition of the Forskar Grand Prix meant a lot. 

"It is proof that I have succeeded in conveying how exciting my research is, my enthusiasm for the profession, and that research is fun. I'm also not going to hide the fact that it's a great feeling that so many people think you gave a good stage performance," explains Sofe Mohlin. "It was also a chance to get training in presentation techniques, meet other researchers and do something I've never done with my research before - compete!"

Sofie went on to participate in the final of the Forskar Grand Prix in Stockholm on November 23rd from 13:00 to 15:00, where she went head-to-head with other semi-final winners from all over Sweden and walked away with the first prize.

Keep faith in science and inspire young people

Sofie Mohlin highlights two important reasons why she participated, and why she believes that other researchers should also get involved.

"Researchers who reach out and share their work can help keep the public believing in science and understanding that its indispensable power is of utmost importance. Two clear examples are vaccines and the climate crisis," notes Sofie Mohlin.

The second aspect is about inspiring young people to pursue a future in the world of research, says Sofie Mohlin. "It is not uncommon for academia to be seen as inaccessible and boring, and since I really love my job, I want to change that image. For me, it is also important to break the stereotype of how a researcher looks and behaves, for example by showing that even a woman with two children, and with no academic background, can lead her own research group."

Last but not least, Sofie highlights the preparation work with the competition. "The whole process has been incredibly fun. Getting to know the other participants, and seeing how research with such an enormous breadth can be expressed, and be so exciting. The training and coaching in being on stage and communicating research was both fun and useful."

Read more about Sofie Mohlin's presentation on Forskar (Researcher) Grand Prix's website