The Communicating Science program will be dedicated to training future scientists and health professionals to communicate more effectively with the public. As the strain for federal funding continues, the ability to communicate scientific research effectively is more important now than ever. Questioning and skepticism is implicit in science.  However, researchers have a responsibility to share the meaning and implications of their work.  Everyone -- researchers, public officials, potential investors, the media, educators and students -- all have a vested interest in the direction of future research.  The goal of this program is for students to learn to communicate clearly and effectively about research and why it matters, in terms non-scientists can understand.

With a focus on communication, this program will explore research based on cell signaling and intercellular communication. This will include topics such as: signaling pathways, the importance of the extracellular matrix, and aberrant signaling that can lead to cancer and other pathologies.  Those who are unaware of the uncertain nature of science can react to articles in these fields with misplaced hope or unnecessary alarm. This program will address this issue by providing a stronger understanding of current research and its relevance to society.  

Students will attend lectures for background knowledge. Students will participate in workshops to develop skills in reading and analyzing scientific literature. Improvisation and public speaking activities will enhance abilities of audience adaptation and highlighting relevant ideas. In addition, students will learn how to adapt their scientific writing to a variety of audiences.  

Upper-division science credits may be awarded to students who have taken the Introduction to Natural Sciences program or equivalent coursework and successfully complete an independent library research assignment and presentation, in addition to completing all program requirements.