Magdalena Kersting

Magdalena Kersting serves as a Tenure-track Assistant Professor of Science Education at the Department of Science Education within the Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen. Her research bridges science education, embodied cognition, and technology, focusing on how bodily experiences shape scientific understanding. She teaches graduate courses in the Master in Science Teaching (MiSU) and Master in STEM Teaching (KASTEM) programs, emphasizing inquiry-based methods and science communication.

Education:

• PhD in Physics Education, University of Oslo (2019)
• Diploma in Public Relations, Freie Journalistenschule Berlin (2018)
• Master of Science in Mathematics, University of Göttingen (2015)
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, University of Göttingen (2012)
• Bachelor of Science in Physics, University of Göttingen (2011)

Dr. Kersting's research centers on embodied cognition in science learning, particularly how physical interactions influence comprehension of complex concepts like general relativity. Her work integrates design-based research to develop innovative curricula, including Einsteinian physics for K-10 students, while exploring intersections with science communication and historical perspectives. Recent projects emphasize teacher development through embodied metaphors and literacy practices.

Analysis of her 2024-2025 publications reveals a cohesive trajectory: applying embodied cognition frameworks to STEM education with dual focus on curriculum innovation (especially Einsteinian physics) and teacher professional development. These works demonstrate methodological rigor through design-based research while addressing practical classroom implementation challenges across international contexts.

Scientific Awards:

• International Astronomical Union PhD Prize in Education (2020)
• IARU’s Early-Career Collaboration Award (2025)
• Early Career Physics Communicator Commissioning Award (2021)
• Winner of Science on Stage National Competition in Norway (2017)
• Hartle Award for Best Oral Talk in Education & Public Outreach (2019)
• Best Oral Presentation of a Young Researcher in Physics Education (2019)
• New Philosopher Writers’ Award (2021)

Dr. Kersting supervises MiSU and KASTEM Master's students while leading major initiatives like the Einsteinian physics curriculum implementation (years 3-10), which involves international teacher training partnerships. Her leadership extends to coordinating the ESERA Special Interest Group 'Languages & Literacies in Science Education' and co-founding the IMPRESS seminar series, fostering global collaboration in physics education research.

She directs the SENSES workshops on embodied cognition applications and co-chairs the ESERA 2025 conference in Copenhagen. Her research group collaborates with institutions including OzGrav (Australia), Einstein First, and Karlstad University, focusing on translating theoretical frameworks into classroom practice through iterative design cycles and teacher co-creation.