Brilliant Science, Poor Communication - We Have a Training Problem

In my recent TEDx talk, “Confessions of a Scientist: Science Education Needs Communication Training,” I unpack the uncomfortable truth that most scientists, myself included, are never formally taught how to communicate our work to anyone outside our field.

That gap has real consequences and matters now more than ever. From classroom experiences to real-world consequences, my talk explores how better communication isn’t just a ‘soft’ skill that should be acquired on the side. Science communication skills and training are essential for fostering public trust, bridging the gap between experts and communities, and ensuring that scientific discoveries don’t just stay behind the walls of academia and paywalls of journals. Our science should be communicated in plain language to inform decisions, shape policy, and translate scientific knowledge into real-world impact that benefits society.

If you are so inclined, please watch, hit the ‘like’ button on YouTube, and share it far and wide with friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, your crazy uncle, people you like and maybe even people you don’t like (hee hee) – this message needs to shared far and wide and heard by everyone both on the inside and outside of science.

Later this week, I’ll break down key moments and ideas from the talk in more detail. For now, I’d love for you to watch and reflect alongside me. Let’s band together to fight for science communication skills and training to be added to graduate and medical education.

THANK YOU for being here :)

ps - the TEDx video editor chose an ‘interesting’ cover shot for the video ;)

Not sure if I was closing my eyes in deep thought or from the blinding stage lights?!