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Should I be a science communicator? 🥼 🎙️
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Do you love science?

Bill Nye giving the thumbs up

Are you a good communicator?

GIF of woman with text 'We need to talk.'

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

Why Is Science Communication Important?

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

-- Robert Irion

Doctor showing a paper with a sign 'Science' on it.

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

What Do Scientific Communicators Do?

Cartoon man with remote control saying 'It's all very scientific.'

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

What Skills Do They Need?

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

Learn Game Master GIF by Hyper RPG Person speaking with headphones on, text popping up'We need more information'

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

Did you know?

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Where Do They Work?

Flaticon Icon Professor explaining something, text bubble is seen

  • Labs

  • Universities

  • Research centers

  • Newspapers, magazines

  • Online publications

  • Television

You Might Love It If...

Kenan Thompson saying, 'I love my job.'

  • 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.

It's Probably Not for You If...

David from Schitt's Creek saying, 'That's a hard pass.'

  • 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.

How Do I Become a Science Communicator?

Lake Bell Rio GIF by ABC Network A Woman talking outdoors, text says ' This is gonna be so easy'

  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.

Money Talks

Man diving into a pool filled with cash. Palm trees surround the pool.

The average salary for a scientific communicator is:

Flaticon Icon

United States

$83,438

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Canada

$70,172

Take Action

Lets Go Reaction GIF by Leroy Patterson. Cat is putting on sunglasses.. Text says, :I, ready.'

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

License:

This Byte has been authored by

OK

Orsolya Kereszty

Learning Designer

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