Science communication is a very diverse field, but it is generally concerned with improving the relationship between science and the rest of society.
In its most fundamental form, science communication is a process of translating complex scientific concepts into everyday language, making science accessible to all.
Skilled science communicators transform complex ideas into captivating narratives, and deliver this through writing, speaking, visual media, or interactive experiences, taking on a role of science translator.
You’ve probably encountered science communication more often than you realise. Perhaps you have read a magazine article about dinosaurs, or a website about space exploration? These are examples of science communication. Maybe you have listened to podcasts about health and nutrition, or watched a YouTube channel on basic physics? Again, science communication. You have probably visited a museum, a science centre, a zoo, an aquarium, or a national park during your life. Or maybe you have attended a science festival, science café, or public lecture? These are all settings for science communication—translating science and making it more accessible.
But science communication extends far beyond just simplifying complex concepts and is involved with a broad range of activities across society. This includes addressing public awareness and understanding of science, encouraging attitude and behaviour change on issues related to science, helping government develop laws and policies affecting how science is used and researched, or facilitating community consensus on controversial research or technology. Anywhere there is an intersect between science and other sectors of society, you can find avenues for science communication.
In all these settings there are a common set of core skills and qualities — strong communication skills, a sensitivity to and awareness of other views and perspectives, and a passion for responsible and ethical relationships between science and society.
Science impacts every aspect of our lives. So the role of science communication is crucial for rendering complex science more accessible, fostering transparency and trusting relationships between science and society, and by empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health, the environment, and more.
Get involved
Science communication opens doors to a world of possibilities. Through science communication you can develop skills in communication, public engagement, and storytelling, along with the capacity to acknowledge, understand, and incorporate diverse perspectives. More than just a set of skills, this is a toolkit for engaging with diverse audiences. People who can effectively communicate the significance of their work are valued in many different careers. So, whether you aspire to be a science journalist, a documentary filmmaker, a teacher, a researcher who can engage the public, a science policy adviser, or a healthcare counsellor, science communication equips you with the means to convey your passion and expertise effectively.
Furthermore, science communication offers opportunity for personal growth. Sharing your passion for science with others, inspiring curiosity, and sparking conversations is both rewarding and deeply fulfilling.
The University of Tsukuba offers courses in science communication, and there are multiple science communication clubs and activities to get involved in. Some of these opportunities are listed on this website. So get involved and start building your future prospects.
