How is the USE Center organised?
The USE Center links a center hub at the Department of Science Education (IND), University of Copenhagen (UCPH), with interdisciplinary research groups in satellites at the University of Aarhus (AU) and the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), and with leading international environments (Utrecht University, Stockholm University, University of Colorado at Boulder) as strategic partners.
Additionally, the USE Center Advisory Board is a strategic entity that provides expert advice and insights to ensure the USE Centre aligns with global standards and best practices in discipline-based educational research (DBER) in science.
Advisory Board Members
Professor Eric Brewe, Drexel University, USA
Brewe is a professor of physics and science education at the College of Arts and Sciences at Drexel University. He has a strong focus on active learning strategies and modelling-based instruction. His work has significantly contributed to understanding how students develop conceptual understanding in physics through social and cognitive engagement. He is also recognised for employing network analysis to investigate classroom interactions, providing new insights into how students collaborate and learn. His expertise will be instrumental in shaping USE’s approach to discipline-based education research (DBER) in the physical sciences.
Professor Sehoya Cotner, Universitetet i Bergen, Norway
Cotner is a professor of biology education and the leader of the STEM Education Research Center in Bergen. She specialises in equity, inclusion, and student engagement within STEM learning environments. Her research tackles barriers to success in science education, particularly for underrepresented groups, and explores the impact of active learning on student retention and achievement. Cotner’s expertise will provide USE with valuable insights into fostering inclusive science teaching practices that enhance student diversity and retention.
Professor Urban Eriksson, Uppsala University, Sweden
Eriksson is a distinguished researcher in astronomy education. He has a strong background in the role of visualisation and embodied cognition in science learning. His work has expanded the field’s understanding of how students engage with abstract scientific concepts through technology and multimodal learning. As an experienced leader in science education research, Eriksson brings extensive international collaboration experience that will strengthen USE’s global partnerships.
Professor Michael Seery, University of Bristol, England
Seery is a leading researcher in chemistry education, specialising in laboratory education, digital learning, and pedagogical innovation in university science teaching. His work investigates how students acquire practical skills in laboratory environments and how digital tools can enhance learning outcomes. Seery’s insights will be pivotal in ensuring that USE research fosters the development of effective, research-based teaching methods in experimental sciences.
Finally, the USE Center is governed by a Governance Board, comprised of representatives from the three partner universities, the Novo Nordisk Foundation as well as the center leader.