Should I be a science communicator? 🥼 🎙️

Do you love science?

Are you a good communicator?

Why not combine these two interests and become a science communicator!

Effective science communication is critical to having a positive impact on the way science is viewed by the public.

-- Robert Irion

Most Americans have a positive image of scientists, but many don't see them as good communicators.

What Do Scientific Communicators Do?

Scientific communicators communicate scientific information to non-scientific audiences.

They:

• are digital storytellers/narrators

• translate complicated science-related information into understandable language for the general public

Read. Write. Repeat. It's all about reading, writing, thinking, and speaking.

Essential skills include:

• Writing ability

• Critical thinking

• Strategic planning

• Public speaking

• Editing

• Creating and using charts

It is helpful to know how to:

• Podcast

• Write a blog

• Establish media connections

• Create videos

• Use social media

• Labs

• Universities

• Research centers

• Newspapers, magazines

• Online publications

• Television

• You're really into science.

• You're curious about the world around you.

• You can think critically when reading about research findings.

• You love to read, read, and read more.

• Talking to people and reaching out to them is your thing.

• You get tired of reading the latest scientific debates, like whether butter or margarine is best.

• You don't like to connect with other people.

• You couldn't care less about how well-informed people are.

• Science seems boring to you.

1. Earn a degree. The most valued degrees are Science Communication degrees, or any teaching-related degree.

2. Get some experience. Volunteer. Complete an internship.

3. Network. Attend a conference. Connect with peers on Linkedin.

4. Grow your skills. Besides your communication skills, science communicators need to keep up to date with the latest scientific research.

The average salary for a scientific communicator is:

United States

$83,438

Canada

$70,172

If science communication seems to be your thing, start today by taking these steps.