Lučka Bibic is a Slovenian-born scientist, communicator, and creative force in the world of digital product management. With a PhD in chemical sciences from the University of East Anglia (U.K.), she has worked at the University of Cambridge and collaborated with BBC5Live as a science communicator. Her career journey has been defined by innovation – from researching spider venoms and chronic pain to developing a VR game that makes science engaging and accessible. A TEDx speaker, CAS Future Leader, and Global Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting awardee, Lučka has authored over 65 publications and led winning teams in biotech entrepreneurship. Now, as Head of Article Pipeline Management at Springer Nature, she’s focused on transforming the academic publishing process. Outside of work, Lučka loves to run trails, caring for her plants, and is a passionate advocate for bringing creativity into the world of scientific discoveries.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Lučka shared her professional trajectory, insights on the evolution of the science communication field in the next 5-10 years, the secret mantra behind her success, personal hobbies and interests, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Lučka. Can you walk us through your background and what you’re most passionate about in your work?
Sure! So, I’m Lučka – a scientist turned product person with a soft spot for ed-tech and team building. My background spans chemistry, science communication, academia, and entrepreneurship, but my true passion lies in making science accessible and engaging. I love contributing to missions that bring science out of the lab and into the world where it belongs.
What aspects of your current role bring you the most joy and fulfillment?
Helping academics publish quicker! It’s like being the bridge between their brilliant minds and the world. As an ex-academic, I know how tough publishing can be, so making the process smoother feels like a win for everyone.
What inspired you to create the VR game for public engagement and science education?
When we created the game, I was a grad student, and I couldn’t help but notice how much time scientists spend in the lab while their stories go untold. I’m talking about the struggles, failures, and relentless problem-solving that lead to those rare moments of triumph. Too often, all we see are polished press releases, but the messy, fascinating journey is where the real learning happens.
My PhD focused on spider venoms and chronic pain, and I wanted to share just how fascinating spider venoms are in a fun and engaging way. Using VR and games, I found a way to bring science to life—combining storytelling and interactive challenges to help students learn while having fun.
What was it like to be a TEDx speaker in 2021, and what message did you hope to convey to your audience?
It was epic! Also, it is slightly terrifying. My talk, How Gamers Are Solving Science’s Biggest Problems, explored how VR and gaming can address major global challenges, from Alzheimer’s research to poverty, and even surgical training. Gaming is a powerful tool for science because it harnesses collective intelligence, bringing together thousands—or even millions—of players to tackle complex problems. For example, Foldit gamers solved protein structures faster than algorithms, and VR simulations provide scalable, hands-on training for medical professionals worldwide.
But the thing is that gaming often gets a bad rap due to the connotations tied to the word ‘games’ – it’s often not taken seriously. Add the word ‘serious,’ though, and suddenly we’re changing the narrative. Serious games are like the Clark Kent of gaming—what looks like fun on the surface is actually here to save the day. That’s why I focus on serious games—tools specifically designed to educate, solve real problems, and create meaningful impact. These games reframe gaming as a legitimate way to learn and retain knowledge, making complex ideas accessible and unforgettable. It’s not just play—it’s powerful learning in action.
You were recognized as a CAS Future Leader and Global Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting awardee. Our readers would love to know the secret sauce behind your success.
Oh, thank you. But you know, honestly, it’s not a sauce – it’s more like a messy casserole of passion, instinct, and following my heart (a very unscientific organ, I know). I guess the key is to figure out what makes your heart sing, dive in headfirst and surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. And be true to yourself no matter where you go, what you do there or with whom you’re doing those stuff with – authenticity is your superpower.
How do you see the field of science communication evolving in the next 5-10 years?
I dream of AI-powered platforms where science becomes a story you play through. Imagine learning complex discoveries while making choices like in an adventure game – fun, intuitive, and sneakily educational. The future of science comms? Immersive, modular, and a bit magical, like Harry Potter.
Who has been a significant influence or mentor in your career, and how have they helped shape your professional journey?
I’ve had many mentors – friends, colleagues, and accidental teachers. They’ve pushed me, taught me, and sometimes given me tough love. But I feel that over time, and with certain mentee-mentor relationships, those mentor-mentee roles blur, and suddenly, you’re both learning from each other.
What are some of your passions outside of work? What do you like to do in your time off?
Trail running! It taught me more about resilience, emotional regulation and problem-solving than my scientific training ever did. For me, long runs are like life: unpredictable, full of surprises, and best tackled with a solid plan, the right gear, some good snacks and a support system. It gives you a certain perspective about life, career and relationships, reminding you that there’s always another mountain to climb, or to move!
Which technology are you investing in now to prepare for the future?
AI – specifically how it intersects with product management, data and insights.
What are your long-term career aspirations, and how do you see yourself evolving as a leader over the next five years?
My goal, no matter in which role or at which career stage I am, is to empower people, build things that matter to people, and have fun while doing it. Basically, less boss, more cheerleader!
What advice would you give to aspiring scientists and technologists?
Be intentionally curious. Be bold. And don’t be afraid to bring your full self-quarks and all – into your work. The world doesn’t need perfect or stiff; it needs passion. Oh, and if your career makes you feel like a kid in a candy store, you’re on the right path.