Women+ of oPEN Lab continues highlighting and celebrating the contributions of women and individuals of diverse genders within the oPEN Lab project. The fifth feature in the series is Saioa González Gutiérrez working at the University of the Basque Country (EHU). Saioa is actively contributing to the oPEN Lab project in Living Lab Pamplona. Below she answers the questions we asked her to know more about her professional journey.
1. Can you describe your role in the oPEN Lab project and the specific aspects you are working on?
In the oPEN Lab project, I am responsible for communication and dissemination activities related to the Pamplona Living Lab, representing the University of the Basque Country (EHU). My work focuses on creating a variety of communication materials such as posters, flyers, videos, and news content, as well as managing the Living Lab’s local website to keep the community informed.
Through these activities, my goal is to give visibility to the actions and initiatives taking place in the neighbourhood, making the project and its impact accessible to citizens and stakeholders. I focus on presenting complex technical and research information in a clear and engaging way, helping residents understand the project’s objectives and encouraging their participation in local initiatives.
2. How has your involvement in the oPEN Lab project contributed to your professional development and growth?
Being part of the oPEN Lab project has given me the opportunity to grow professionally in an international and multidisciplinary environment. I have improved my communication and marketing skills for academic and European projects, especially in designing strategies and materials that make technical work more accessible to a wide audience.
The project has also allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of sustainability, energy-efficient renovation, and citizen engagement, among other topics. Collaborating closely with researchers, technical teams, and local stakeholders has improved my management, teamwork, and cross-cultural communication skills, as well as my ability to create communication strategies that are both informative and participatory.
3. As a woman in a technical field, what unique perspectives or strengths do you believe you bring to the oPEN Lab project?
Although my expertise resides in communication and marketing rather than technical research, working in a technical field allows me to contribute by providing a complementary perspective to the oPEN Lab project.
By emphasising inclusiveness and diverse perspectives, I help the project remain human-centered and socially responsive. In order to make sure that the Pamplona Living Lab’s initiatives are clear, relevant, and interesting for all the residents of Rochapea, I facilitate connections between technical experts and the community.
