Talk nerdy to me: Communicating research that matters

At the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology’s Art of Science Communication, or ASC, summer session, scientists at all career stages gather to refine clear, engaging stories about their research. In eight weeks, participants create personal pitches, some even sharing them with family or community groups.

Clear communication, whether in essays or at a conference, can pave the way to full-time science communication roles.

Become a go‑to expert for journalists

Since Facebook opened widely in 2006, social media has become a major news and information source. According to the Pew Research Center, 21% of Americans now get their daily news from social media influencers.

Though prone to misinformation, social platforms, like Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, X and TikTok, offer scientists an opportunity to share new research, lab wins and offer expert commentary.

Build your public voice online

You don’t need a full-time science communicator to gain visibility. Journalists, especially those without technical backgrounds, search for experts online. A consistent username across platforms makes outreach easier.

Social media tips & resources:

• Popular Science article models profiles of effective science communicators.
• Nature content collection page curates advice for engaging the public.
• American Society for Cell Biology guide provides platform-specific guidance for scientists.

Prefer not to use social media? Register with an expert database. Journalists can search for you by field, institution and topic.

SciLine, a service based at the American Association for the Advancement of Science, provides media training and lets you register as an expert. 500 Women Scientists maintains a directory for women and gender‑minority scientists.

Explore consulting and communication careers

Science communication extends beyond journalism. Professional consulting roles, which offer opportunities to work in healthcare, nonprofit, TV and film, rely on scientists to ensure accuracy.

The journal Science interviewed freelance consultants on the top qualifications for these roles, including analytical and problem-solving skills. Freelance platform Kolabtree notes clients seeking experts without long-term contracts. Remote work and flexible schedules demand strong communication and self‑marketing skills.

Match your science skills to real-world needs

Transitioning into communication-focused roles means emphasizing soft skills — like collaboration, storytelling and adaptability — rather than technical publications. The Training Initiatives in Biomedical and Biological Sciences program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a guide for postgrad scientists entering consulting.

Soft‑skills career resources:

• Proclinical, a career development firm, offers tips on translating research into business development roles.
• Stefano Gaburro, scientific director at Tecniplast, compiled a list of alternative careers for Ph.D.s, including medical science liaison.
• BiteSizeBio, a blog by Suzanne Kennedy, describes roles such as life-science patent examiner.

Cindy Yee, now head of project management at Good Therapeutics, transitioned from bench work by volunteering for cross-lab collaborations.

Yee enjoyed the process of integrating new systems into the laboratory because she collaborated with various teams of scientists and engineers, but discovered that “once the systems were in place and running ... I found myself alone in a room with machines most of the day.”

After this experience, Yee enrolled in a project management certificate program and, once the program ended, accepted a position at a life science project management consulting firm.

Whether you’re at the bench or leading a team, communication is a critical skill. ASBMB’s Art of Science Communication equips scientists at any career stage with essential storytelling tools. Enrollment for the winter session begins in December.