For the Geek in Everyone

Why is it so important? Science plays a vital role in the world, from the discovery of new drugs (or vaccines against SARS-CoV-2) to futuristic technologies that promise to help support human life on Mars. But if that science is not communicated clearly, the people who rely on scientific knowledge are left confused and less likely to trust scientists and science in general. In addition to bolstering trust in science, your words could inspire a person to enter a scientific field or give them a deeper understanding of the world and their place in it. Explaining the beauty of quantum physics, the wonders being created inside a particle accelerator or the mind-boggling energy of a supernova can open another’s eyes to the boundless nature of science.

In this talk, I will describe what good science communication looks like and the many avenues it can take, from social media posts to full features in digital and print news publications. Whether you’re interested in dipping your toe into the waters of communicating science to the public or hope to dive right in, this talk will give you tips and resources to get you started.