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Short Abstract

Citizen science with experts is full of potential (and personality). When researchers meet professionals, ego meets ego. This showcase shares lessons and laughs from projects where everyone is an expert and gives recommendations on how to turn separated know-how into shared discovery.

Abstract

Citizen science often invites “everyone to participate”. But what happens when everyone already knows a lot? Many projects work with expert groups: beekeepers tracking bee viruses, patients contributing their lived experience to medical studies or native speakers documenting their language. Ideally, these collaborations bring together academic and practical knowledge, enriching both research and real-world practice. However, when professionals and researchers meet, so do different forms of knowledge and different egos.

This showcase pitch explores the dynamics of citizen science with experts and professionals, where collaboration sometimes turns into a clash of confidence. Researchers may guard their “academic method”, while participants defend their practical wisdom. Between mutual respect and mutual correction, fascinating learning moments emerge.

Drawing from real project experiences, this showcase pitch highlights the joys, the pitfalls and the “know-it-all” moments that make expert participation both challenging and rewarding. It provides practical recommendations for balancing power dynamics, building trust and creating spaces where every form of expertise (from academic and local to experiential) contributes meaningfully to the joint generation of knowledge. Because when handled well, citizen science with experts does not inflate egos but expands horizons.