23.01.2026
studies teaching research recognition 

Junior Research Fellow Kaarel Lott Receives Outstanding Societal Contribution Award

Kaare Lott esinemas
Author: Erakogu

The Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Tartu has awarded the Outstanding Societal Contribution Award to Kaarel Lott, Junior Research Fellow of Digital Media Studies at the Institute of Social Studies. His research focuses on the radicalisation of young men and on increasing societal awareness of the risks associated with online misogyny and extremist content.

Lott’s research interests include digital culture, online shaming, misogyny and digital media literacy. When presenting the award, it was emphasised that Lott combines empathy with confidence when communicating his research findings to the wider public. In addition, his strong teaching skills and the popularity of his public lectures were highlighted.

According to Lott, it is encouraging that topics related to misogyny and radicalisation matter deeply to people, although it is also regrettable that these phenomena have developed into such serious societal challenges. Public interest motivates his research, as he can see how research-based knowledge supports greater understanding and prevention.

I feel immense gratitude that while researching such a mentally demanding topic, my supervisors and colleagues at the institute have provided such strong support.

Kaarel Lott
Kaarel Lott
Kaarel Lott
Junior Research Fellow of Digital Media Studies at the University of Tartu

Kaarel Lott regularly participates in conferences focusing on online risks and radicalisation. At the Institute of Social Studies, he has organised webinars for parents and education professionals, explaining what the manosphere is, how radicalising content reaches young men through digital platforms, and how to recognise warning signs in young people’s internet use. In these events, Lott addressed the topic through the example of the popular Netflix series Adolescence, which helped participants relate more easily to the issue and reflect on the broader societal implications. The seminar recording has received more than 3,500 views on YouTube.

Lott obtained his master’s degree in Media and Communication Studies from Lund University. He is currently a doctoral student at the Institute of Social Studies at the University of Tartu, supervised by Associate Professor of Media Studies Maria Murumaa-Mengel and Professor of English Studies Raili Marling. He has published research articles in journals such as Convergence and Humanities and Social Sciences Communications and co-authored an extensive report on misogyny and sexism published by the think tank Praxis. In addition, he teaches courses for journalism and communication students focusing on social theory, the information society, digital culture and communication.

The Outstanding Societal Contribution Award recognises members of the Faculty of Social Sciences who have demonstrated active and meaningful engagement with society. The awards were presented at the faculty’s winter seminar on 19 January 2026. More information about all award recipients is available on the Faculty of Social Sciences website.