Science Communication Badge

About Science Communication

Science communication is essential for translating complex scientific concepts into accessible and engaging narratives that reach diverse audiences. By effectively communicating their research findings, scientists can increase public understanding of science, inspire interest in STEM fields, help fight misinformation, and promote informed decision-making about important social issues. Through clear and engaging communication, scientists bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general public, promoting dialogue, trust, and collaboration to address shared challenges and advance scientific knowledge for the benefit of society.

Requirements

Option 1: Present Your Work in Science Communication and/or Outreach Events

Present your work in at least two science outreach events (e.g., public presentations, 3-Minute Thesis Competition, Neurolingo, BrainReach, NeuroInfo, etc.).

Option 2: Create Media Content Related to Science Communication

  1. Contribute to a Social Media Account or Media Outlet: Lead or participate in the organization of a social media account, other web outlet, or media outlet to share and communicate science with meaningful engagement. OR
  2. Create Science Communication Pieces: Create at least two science communication pieces aiming to make science accessible to a wide audience (e.g., blog posts, articles in news outlets & magazines).

Option 3: Create, Lead, or Organize a Science Communication Initiative

Lead or participate in the organization/coordination of a science outreach initiative (e.g., BrainReach, Neurolingo, Curious Neuron, etc.).

Option 4: Take a Science Communication Course or Training

Complete a course, program, or summer school relevant to Science Communication (e.g., McGill Writing Centre’s “Communicating Science to the Public” Course WCOM 614).

Submission Checklist

All submissions go through the Open Science Bagdges Submission Form. Here is what to include in your applicaiton file depending on which Option described above you are following:

For Presenting Your Work (Option 1):

  • Provide proof of participation in at least two science communication and/or outreach events (email, letter, event program/booklet).
  • Provide a brief description (max. 250 words) of your participation in science communications and outreach events.

For Creating Media Content (Option 2):

  • Provide links to the social media account or media outlet and proof of your involvement.
  • Provide links to at least two science communication pieces and proof of your involvement/authorship.
  • Provide a summary (max. 250 words) of the content created with evidence of engagement with the content created (e.g., number of posts, number of re-shares and reactions, number of reads, downloads, etc.).

For Creating, Leading, or Organizing an Initiative (Option 3):

  • Provide proof of participation in the organization (e..g, links to the initiative’s website, letter from the organization).
  • Provide a brief description (max. 250 words) of your involvement in the initiative.

Take a Science Communication Course or Training (Option 4):

  • Provide a certificate of completion or transcript as proof of completion in a science communication course or training program.
  • Provide a brief description (max. 250 words) of the course and what you gained from it.

Application

Apply now using this application form to earn your first Open Science badge!