Science communication as a discipline in itself is becoming increasingly important in helping to educate and inform the public about science and technology. Many scientists are involved in engagement initiatives in collaboration with science centres and museums, through schools, the media and PR work. In addition, several funding bodies – including some of the UK Research Councils (RCUK) – now require university researchers to carry out public engagement activities as part of their research contracts.
Translating complex ideas for lay audience
Science communicators are skilled at translating complex ideas and concepts for a lay audience as well as enthusing youngsters about science and technology and encouraging them to pursue a scientific career. They also have an important role to play in public dialogue, helping to develop innovative ways of facilitating dialogue and engagement across all age groups.
Sciencewise-ERC cooperating with science communicators
The Sciencewise Expert Resource Centre is keen to work with the science communication community to help broaden the project delivery market and encourage more science communicators to become involved in public dialogue and build it into other engagement processes.
In particular we will be working closely with the new Beacons for Public Engagement being set up by a number of university-led consortia around the UK.
The Beacons are financially supported by the national higher education funding councils, the UK Research Councils and the Wellcome Trust. Their aim is to develop a culture of public engagement within academia and embed good engagement practice in research processes – not just in science and technology but also across all research disciplines including the arts and humanities.
Find out about working with Sciencewise-ERC
If you are a science communicator and would like to find out more about working with the Sciencewise-ERC, please register on the website through the knowledge hub. Over the next year, we will be holding a number of networking and other events, which we hope will be of interest to this community.
Links to more information on science communication
The BA Science Communication Conference
The BA Science in Society
The Science Communication Network (US)
