Beñat Olave

Dr. Beñat Olave is a science communication and outreach professional with a multidisciplinary background in chemistry, education and socio-educational facilitation. He obtained his PhD in Chemistry from the University of the Basque Country (EHU) in 2021, conducting research at POLYMAT on functional DNA, biomaterials and membrane systems. He also holds a Master’s in Applied Chemistry and Polymeric Materials, partly completed at Technische Universität Wien through Erasmus+. His educational background includes Master’s degrees in Secondary Education Teaching and Psychodidactics, as well as specialised training in science communication, gamification and digital learning environments. Since 2021, he has taught chemistry, experimental laboratory methodology and natural science didactics at EHU. Before returning to POLYMAT as Outreach Manager in 2025, he coordinated educational and youth projects at the Spanish Red Cross in Gipuzkoa, working with multidisciplinary teams and young people in vulnerable situations. At POLYMAT, he coordinates institutional communication and science outreach initiatives. His work combines his knowledge of chemistry and polymer science with didactic design, group facilitation and inclusive communication. He develops STEAM programmes, gamified educational resources and participatory, multilingual formats that promote critical thinking, scientific literacy and dialogue between researchers and society.