The Stories Behind (the) Research – Ep. 2. From Skepticism to Action: Embracing a culture of humility in research
The Stories Behind (the) Research – Ep. 2. From Skepticism to Action: Embracing a culture of humility in research
By the end of this module, learners will be able to:
- Reflect on the role of skepticism in research.
- Explore the relationship between uncertainty and scientific inquiry.
- Recognise the value of intellectual humility.
- Consider what motivates them in their own work and learning.
What is this about?
What can skepticism teach us about doing better research?
In this episode of The Stories Behind (the) Research, host Giulia Inguaggiato speaks with Joeri Tijdink, Associate Professor at Amsterdam UMC and clinical psychiatrist, about the role of skepticism, humility, and self-reflection in academia.
Joeri shares his unexpected path into research, one that began with deep skepticism about scientific certainty. Reflecting on a pivotal moment early in his career, he describes how questioning research ultimately led him to “put his hands in the dough” and engage with it from within. What followed was a journey from doubt to action, and from criticism to a more nuanced and constructive form of skepticism.
Together, they explore the tension between the inherently uncertain nature of research and the pressure to communicate certainty, the importance of community and openness in academia, and why embracing doubt can ultimately strengthen both researchers and research itself.Listen
Listen to the podcast.
While listening, consider:
- How did skepticism influence Joeri’s career?
- What transformed skepticism into action?
- What values drive his work today?
Remarks
About the Guest
Joeri Tijdink is a clinical psychiatrist and Associate Professor at Amsterdam UMC. As a researcher, he works at the intersection of research integrity, open science, reproducibility, research culture, and the mental health of academics.
He is driven by a genuine belief that academia can be a better place, one where researchers are happier, more honest about their work, have more fun, and feel truly inspired by what they do.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeritijdink
Credits
- Host: Giulia Inguaggiato
- Guest: Joeri Tijdink
- Music: “Patchwork: Island 5&6” — Ileana Termini & Otilka Quartet, by Lisa Weyrauther (courtesy of the artists) IleanaTerimini - Otilka - Lisa Weyrauther - Nexus
- Audio Editing: Voicebooking.com
- Production Support: Sasha Baker, Jusry Eshun
