What role do literature and the arts play in the societal impact of research? This study introduces a new conceptual framework —the LASIR model— to show how creative practices expand the ways in which research connects with society. Through direct collaborations between researchers and artists, and through cultural representations of science in literary and artistic works, the arts do not merely communicate research: they actively contribute to the co-production of societal meaning and public engagement.

Main conclusions:

• The LASIR model identifies two complementary pathways to societal impact: collaboration through literature and the arts, and representation of science in cultural narratives.
• Creative practices generate impact by fostering engagement, shaping public imaginaries, and enhancing the cultural legitimacy of research.
• Innovation policy and research evaluation frameworks should better recognise and support the role of literature and the arts in generating societal impact.

What role do literature and the arts play in the societal impact of research?

Joaquín M. Azagra-Caro, David A. Kirby & Alessandro Muscio (2026). Literature, the arts, and the societal impact of research. Technovation, 152, 103463.