A New Obligation or a Natural Extension? STEM Scientists’ Science Communication in the Context of Their Professional Role Identities

Scientists face increasing expectations to engage in public communication. Using role identity theory, this qualitative interview study explores how experienced STEM researchers in Germany integrate these expectations into their professional role identities, where conflicts and intersections arise, and which factors influence these processes. Findings reveal that while some scientists integrate communication demands with core professional roles (e.g., research, teaching), others perceive them part of external administrative burdens, leading to resistance. The results imply that the increasing obligations for scientists’ engagement in science communication should be closer aligned with their central identity standards.