Science Communication Program and Podcast Lab

Good science communication makes research visible, strengthens trust in science and promotes social dialog. The basic training imparts key skills for comprehensible and targeted communication. It raises awareness of the requirements of good science communication and provides the methodological tools to communicate research effectively – in media work, in direct exchange with the public and in other formats.

Key topics:

•     Strategic planning of science communication
•     Actors in science communication
•     Target groups and media
•     Develop your own core message
•     Trust in science

The digital media landscape offers scientists new opportunities to actively participate in public debates and place research topics in a targeted manner. Social networks and blogs are ideal channels for this – with the right strategy. This interactive training course provides practical information on how to use social media effectively, which rules apply to digital communication and how to set up a professional online profile. Through practical exercises, participants receive valuable tips on how to communicate scientific content on the various social media platforms in a targeted and effective manner. The focus on individual platforms can be set according to the expectations of the participants.

Key topics:

• The new media landscape and the consequences for science communication
• Instagram, Bluesky, LinkedIn, TikTok
• The digital profile and how to influence it
• Planning your own online communication strategy
• Tips and tricks for successful communication online

This module is offered in German only. It focuses on how to communicate complex scientific topics in a clear and accessible way across formats such as website texts, press releases, and popular science articles.

German title: "Verständlich Schreiben über Wissenschaft"

Whether it’s a lecture series, public dialog or science slam – researchers often have to communicate their topics clearly and effectively. This format shows you how to structure a presentation professionally, structure content to suit the target group and present it in a visually appealing way, whether using PowerPoint or other forms of presentation. In addition to methods for content design, the focus is also on your own appearance. Through practical training, participants learn how to present themselves confidently and present their topic in a convincing and understandable way.

Key topics:

• Core message – getting to the point
• Target groups – knowing and reaching the audience
• Presentation form, style and goal – the framework of the presentation
• Narrative styles and storytelling – telling science in an exciting way
• Attention – increase and maintain it
• Appearance, facial expressions and gestures – the effect on stage

The course offers a practice-oriented introduction to science communication via podcast. Participants learn how they can use podcasts specifically for their research topics and receive valuable tips for creating their own formats. Using practical exercises, they will learn how a podcast is created step by step – from concept development to production and subsequent marketing.

Key topics:

• What formats and trends are there?
• Planning and conception of your own podcast
• Writing for the ear: How do images form in the mind?
• Step by step to your first podcast audio clip
• Sound and technology: How do you create a rich sound without a recording studio?
• Marketing: How does my podcast reach my listeners?