The Art of Communicating Science
This is achieved through the diverse expertise of four core team members who lead the workshops , including myself , Mario Aguilera ’ 89 , director of communications for the School of Biological Sciences ; Debbie Nail Meyer , MS ’ 94 , a science outreach specialist with experience in video production ; Rubinstein ; and Sherry Seethaler , director of education initiatives .
“ The ability to get feedback from science communication experts and media experts to theatre and performance experts is an invaluable experience ,” says Uri Manor , a workshop participant and assistant professor in the School of Biological Sciences . “ It was also helpful to do this with other scientists so we could learn from their feedback as well .”
Seethaler , author of a new book , Beyond the Sage on the Stage : Communicating Science and Contemporary Issues Effectively , recognizes the impact of the program .
“ As we work with researchers , they have many ‘ aha ’ moments that help them optimize their communication approaches ,” says Seethaler . “ Those breakthroughs are a real joy to see , just like the aha moments that advance the scientific discovery process .”
RCP is funded by a grant from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and led by the schools of Biological Sciences and Physical Sciences with support from University Communications . •
Learn more at today . ucsd . edu / story / communicating-science .
“ There ’ s never been a more critical time for scientists to be able to communicate the importance of their research — directly , clearly and authentically — than today .”
— Kim Rubinstein , professor emerita , Department of Theatre and Dance
Photo : Daniel Orren
Practical Training : The Research Communications Program offers interactive workshops , on-camera training and coaching for science researchers .
UC SAN DIEGO MAGAZINE 13