"When you interact with different people and when you gain so many different experiences – it will change who you are“An Interview with João Pedro Ghidini da Silva

15 April 2026

Photo: João Pedro Ghidini da Silva

We had the opportunity to interview João Pedro Ghidini da Silva from the Universidade de São Paulo (USP), who is currently completing parts of his doctoral research in Ensino de Ciências at the Faculty of Education at the Universität Hamburg. He specializes in science education, with a particular focus on physics teaching and learning, and his PhD research explores topics such as trust in science and low dose radiation. His academic background combines a strong foundation in physics with a clear emphasis on educational research and innovative teaching approaches.

Hi João. Thank you for your time. Please tell us about where you come from and your academic background.

I am originally from São Paulo, Brazil. I completed degrees in both physics and physics education, followed by a Master’s degree in physics education, and I am currently pursuing a PhD in the same field. While I have some experience teaching in schools, my primary focus has been within the academic context.

During my earlier work, particularly in my Master’s studies, I focused on modern physics and its teaching. I collaborated with initiatives connected to CERN and particle physics, acting as a link between physicists and educators. One of our key projects explored cosmic rays. More recently, my research has shifted toward addressing broader social challenges in education. My PhD work is based on the idea that education is justified by our social value. This applies not only to science teaching, but also to the preparation of science professionals and anyone engaging with scientific knowledge.

A central concern of my research is how people interact with scientific information. In modern society, many aspects of daily life involve expert knowledge, which means that individuals constantly, whether consciously or not, engage with experts. This relationship is largely built on trust. However, trust in science has become increasingly complex. While science provides significant benefits, it also involves risks, and there is an important distinction between scientific knowledge itself and how it is applied in society. Recent developments, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted challenges such as declining trust and the spread of conspiracy theories. At the same time, blind trust in science can also be problematic. Therefore, an important goal of education is to help people navigate this balance between critical thinking and informed trust.

Aside from the social topic, can you tell me more about the physics-based approach to your study?

I chose low-dose radiation because it is an interesting and relevant topic. Everyone is exposed to it, whether they want to or not, for example through cosmic rays and natural background radiation. At the same time, society has found beneficial uses for it, especially in medical procedures, where it allows us to see inside the body. However, there are still uncertainties. There are different models with different approaches to explaining the effects of low-dose radiation, and none of them has been proven. Experts even suggest that we may never know which model is correct. This means that we must make decisions, such as setting limits, despite this uncertainty in scientific knowledge. From a social perspective, if people were more aware of these uncertainties, it could influence their behavior, for example, they might either be more willing to undergo medical procedures or develop greater fear.

What will be your goal for your research?

My research has two main goals. First, to understand how people react to the aforementioned uncertainty. If they accept that risks are unavoidable or instead develop more fear and possibly avoid medical procedures. Second, to evaluate these reactions, since both positions have benefits and risks. A more appropriate approach is for people to become more aware and to consider both benefits and harms. To do so, they need to understand the relevant evidence and values. In short, the goal is to understand first and then to teach.

Interesting. Is it also part of the reason why you came to Hamburg to also see how the social effects differ regionally? 

Yes, to some extent. I have already collected a substantial amount of data in Brazil, although the analysis still needs to be further developed. Here, I am working with Prof. Dr. Dietmar Höttecke, and  there is a possibility of visiting a school next month to gather additional data. In Brazil, I conducted two studies with middle and high school students and I also carried out two studies with teachers, as they play a crucial role in this relationship. Here, I will again focus on high school students and teachers. The topic of radiation is often not sufficiently addressed in teacher education, so we aim to explore how teachers respond to it.

How did you decide to go to Hamburg or the Hamburg University specifically? How do you like Hamburg? Is it what you thought it was going to be like?

My supervisor in Brazil knows my supervisor here, and this connection brought me to Hamburg. It is an excellent city with a high quality of life. Compared to a large and busy city like São Paulo, life here feels calmer, and I have more time. The people are quite different from the people in Brazil. In Hamburg, they tend to be more reserved, but at the same time they are very kind and enjoyable to be around. Everyone has been so kind with me and I'm enjoying the experience here. 

I am glad to hear that. Did you notice some differences and similarities between the universities in Hamburg and São Paulo?

I have noticed some differences. In research groups here, there is a stronger focus on data analysis, we examine data in depth and maintain this focus even when discussing other work. In São Paulo, by contrast, there is more emphasis on theoretical discussion, often based on articles rather than empirical data. I believe both approaches have their benefits. Another difference is the university restaurant. Here, it is used by everyone, by students, professors, and staff, whereas in Brazil it is mainly used by students, with professors typically having lunch elsewhere. Finally, there is broader difference regarding the whole city. In Hamburg, public transport operates with a high level of trust, as tickets are rarely checked, while in Brazil there is usually a designated person to control them. A similar contrast exists at the university level: in Brazil, campuses are often physically separated from the city, whereas here the university is more open and integrated into its surroundings.

For other researchers who are planning to come to Hamburg, do you have any advice or tips?

I believe that any opportunity to live and to work in a different context, particularly within another research group, is highly valuable. It allows you to see things from a new perspective and to reflect differently on your own research. The working environment here is also really good, and the university provides a strong structure with a diverse academic community. Being at a different institution also makes it possible for me to engage not only with one group but with several. My professor has encouraged me to do so, enabling me to build connections with researchers beyond my supervisor.

Overall, such experiences are very beneficial, especially given the increasing necessity to build international collaboration.

My last question would be if you already have a take-home message for yourself? Something that you didn't know before you came here or that you will definitely take home with you.

When we read about history, it becomes clear how different societies can be, but experiencing another society firsthand is something entirely different. When you do it, when you start living somewhere else, when you stop speaking in your mother tongue, when you interact with different people and when you gain so many different experiences, it will change who you are. My main message is that such experiences help us with having greater empathy for other people around the world. By better understanding differences, we can contribute to building a world in which people can live together despite those differences.

You can find out more about João Pedro Ghidini da Silva on his research page and/or contact him via email joao.ghidini.silva"AT"usp.br.