Science communication training for PhD students at the Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (SydneyID)

Scientell delivered a hands-on science communication training workshop for PhD students at the University of Sydney’s Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute (SydneyID), helping participants develop the skills and confidence to communicate complex medical research to a range of audiences.

Client: Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney

Audience: PhD students, early-career researchers

Communicating research effectively is an increasingly important skill for researchers, whether presenting at conferences, engaging with the media, applying for funding, participating in public outreach, or influencing policy and practice.

Scientell designed and delivered a half-day interactive science communication workshop for PhD students at SydneyID, which focused on helping participants communicate their research clearly and confidently to non-specialist audiences. Participants explored the foundations of effective science communication, including identifying communication goals, understanding audiences, and developing key messages. The workshop also covered practical techniques for storytelling in research, simplifying technical language, using analogies, presenting data, and designing effective visual communications. Participants also developed skills in presentation delivery, including body language, vocal techniques, and managing nerves.

Throughout the session, participants engaged in interactive exercises to reinforce learning and build confidence, including a 1-minute elevator pitch at the end of the workshop to bring theory and practice together.