Effectively explaining what you study — whether in a talk, at a conference, or in a hallway conversation — is a core skill for every researcher. If you struggle to articulate the essence of your work or find yourself stumbling when someone asks, “So, what do you research?” this workshop is designed for you.
Over two highly interactive, in-person sessions, you will learn how to distill your research into a concise, clear, and memorable message. Through guided exercises, feedback, and hands-on practice, you will identify the central themes of your research and shape them into compelling narratives that match different audiences.
Participation in both sessions is expected, and you should be prepared to engage actively and complete light homework between meetings. If you are scheduled to give a talk to a new or unfamiliar audience, this is for you!
Session 1: Introduction
1. Why having a clear message is so important
2. Understanding your audience
3. Class member introductions
4. Exercise: Deconstructing your research story
Homework will be assigned!
Session 2: Review Messaging
We will spend the second session of this course reviewing everyone’s new research messages.
Rules of Engagement
- We’re all here to help you improve your science communications.
- Constructive feedback is essential and required.
- Active participation is required.
- This is work, but it should also be fun and informative!
Registration is currently limited to UMB faculty members.
Questions? Contact the course instructor, Audrey Huang, MA, PhD, director of science communication and scientific editor, Center for Advanced Research Training & Innovation.
Option 1:
Dates: Fridays, March 27 and April 3
Times: 10-11:30 a.m.
Location: TBA (in-person only)
Please register by Friday, March 13.
Option 2:
Dates: Thursdays, April 30 and May 7
Times: 4-5:30 p.m.
Location: TBA (in-person only)
Please register by Friday, April 17.