There is little discussion or promotion of the value of learning languages in STEM, despite the very international nature of STEM fields and their positive stance towards international collaboration and mobility. Similarly, there is relatively low interest in the languages sector in engagement with STEM subjects, despite the languages sector’s frequent claim that it is an inherently interdisciplinary field. With this in mind, a group of Lancaster University students and staff have launched an initiative to promote awareness of the benefits of bringing languages and science together.

As part of the initiative, the Scilang Podcast series has been launched, which shares personal stories of how bringing languages and STEM together in meaningful ways have enhanced careers and lives. It consists of fascinating conversations exploring topics such as the role of languages in scientists' lives, positive language challenges, and how languages change (us).

The initiative has also included three international hybrid conferences on languages and sciences so far, including a teaching-focused conference.

This talk discusses the rationale driving the "Languages in science and science in languages" project, key topics raised when languages and sciences are considered together, insights gained so far from the activities held, and plans for the future.