Ever wondered how to translate intricate scientific findings into compelling narratives? This session of jNWG BrainTalks is dedicated to science communication. Nicholas Weiler, Associate Director of Communications at the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute and the Knight Initiative for Brain Resilience will give an introduction into how to increase the outreach of your science and communicate your science to a broader audience.

📆 Thursday, January 9

🕥 6:30 pm CET

📍 Zoom

This talk is designed for early-career neuroscientists, graduate students, postdocs, and all research professionals who want to improve their science communication skills. Whether you are just starting out or looking to refine your approach to public engagement, this session will provide valuable insights that can transform the way you share your scientific journey.

Wrap Up

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Nicholas Weiler for delivering a beautiful and insightful talk on science communication. His expertise and passion for making science more accessible have truly inspired us, and we are grateful for the opportunity to learn from him.

Throughout the talk, Nicholas shared key principles that can help us become better science communicators:

  • Know Yourself – Begin by understanding your purpose. Why are you giving this talk? What should the audience take away from it?
  • Know Your Audience – Tailor your message to the people you are speaking to, keeping their level of familiarity with the topic in mind.
  • It’s Not Dumbed Down – Making science accessible doesn’t mean simplifying it to the point of losing meaning; it means finding ways to explain complex concepts clearly.
  • Flip It and Reverse It – Unlike scientific presentations, where we build up to the conclusion with data, communicating to non-experts requires starting with a hook to capture interest immediately.
  • Have Fun Doing It – Engaging communication is contagious.

In addition to these invaluable lessons, Nicholas also shared several excellent resources for those interested in improving their science communication skills:

  • The Open Notebook – A highly recommended resource for both experienced science writers and those considering entering the field.
  • The Craft of Science Writing – A newly updated collection of the best resources from The Open Notebook team.
  • On Writing Well, by William Zinsser – A timeless guide on the elements of clear writing and thinking.
  • The Best American Science and Nature Writing Series – An annual anthology featuring exemplary science writing that we can all strive to emulate.
  • The Transmitter – A promising new neuroscience-focused publication from the Simons Foundation, which may even be looking for contributors.

Nicholas reminded us that science communication is a skill, one that can be learned and improved through practice. By understanding our audience, crafting our message thoughtfully, and enjoying the process, we can share the beauty of science with the world.

Thank you again to Nicholas Weiler for this enriching session, and thank you all for participating. We hope you leave inspired to communicate your science with clarity, creativity, and confidence!

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