Soe Yu Naing wins Breaking Science 2026
The final of Breaking Science 2026 took place on the evening of Wednesday 27 May in Parnassos Cultural Center. Eight finalists competed for the title and the prize money of 1,500 euros. The jury unanimously chose PhD student Soe Yu Naing, who thus took home the coveted prize.
Soe Yu Naing is a Myanmar-born public health professional and researcher with over a decade of work experience. Trained in neuroscience and infectious diseases, he works at Utrecht University on genomics, antimicrobial resistance, and One Health, while managing international transdisciplinary research, teaching, and pursuing a multisectoral PhD in Indonesia.
In heat 2, Soe Yu Naing secured a place in the final. During the final, he impressed the judges with his research pitch on the impact of reducing colistin use on colistin resistance in humans and poultry in Indonesia. According to the three-member judging panel, the three Cs (Content, Clarity and Connection) came across clearly during his pitch.
Science communication is a necessary skill, especially in today’s world, where misinformation and distrust in science are growing concerns. I believe this opportunity will support my future career, as I aspire to become a science diplomat one day.
About Breaking Science
Breaking Science is organized annually. A total of 30 participants, phd's and postdocs, entered the pitch contest this year. As part of Breaking Science, the participants started with a training from the professionals of Artesc. A unique experience in which they learn how to design a pitch, how to bring it to the stage and how to address the audience.
After the training, it's time for the preliminary rounds. There are a total of four so-called heats where up to eight participants compete for the final spot. In each heat, two winners emerge who eventually advance to the finals.
