Training and Workshops

Science Communication Internship

As part of its overarching ‘Spreading Excellence’ Workpackage 3, Med-Vet-Net is required to train people in scientific communication. The Internship is open to any current student, researcher or staff member of the Med-Vet-Net partner institutes. There are a limited number of places for external participants, please contact the Med-Vet-Net Communications Unit for details.

Module 1 will be held from 4 to 16 May 2009.

Course Structure

The internship runs as a course of four modules, each module running between 2 and 2.5 weeks.

Module 1: Science Communication – Why and How? – Why do we need to communicate science? What happens if we don’t? Covers all essential skills needed for successful communication such as writing, presenting, networking, interviewing, negotating, and being assertive. (NB: It is compulsory to undertake this module before completing any others) (read article)

Module 2: Influencing the Media, and Publishing – Examines two-way communication with the media so we can understand each other’s needs, and skills in desktop publishing. Topics include broadcasting (TV, radio), press (newspapers, magazines, journals), writing press releases, media skills, desktop publishing (InDesign) and public relations. (Read article)

Module 3: Engaging with Stakeholders – examines communications with scientists, decision makers, government, industry, NGOs, museums, schools and the public. You will gain skills in influencing, networking, writing proposals, and organizing conferences and events. (Read article)

Module 4: Virtual Communications – a look at new and emerging technologies for communcating science. Topics include web design, online communications, podcasting, digital photography, Web 2.0, HTML and other mark-up languages. (Read article)