Science communication to boost diversity in STEM

Catch up on this free online event held over four mornings in July

The benefits of a diverse workforce are numerous and now well documented. Despite this, women, disabled people and those from ethnic minorities or socially disadvantaged groups are still consistently underrepresented, particularly at senior levels in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Science communication and public engagement are often viewed as unnecessary demands on an academic’s precious time, yet these activities have the potential to raise profiles and enable researchers to reach a wider audience. These are ‘impact’ accreditations, and can improve job prospects and the grant-winning potential of scientists, alongside providing public-speaking and networking opportunities. Importantly, these activities can help promote the emergence of role models who will inspire the young scientists of the future, while challenging stereotypes on who or what a scientist really is. With this one-day symposium, we will explore how science communication, public engagement and outreach activities can foster curiosity about, appreciation for or understanding of scientific concepts, and ultimately support the emergence of a more diverse STEM community. 

This event will provide a unique opportunity to bring together a wide audience at the interface of science communication and diversity in STEM. This could include but is not limited to, STEM researchers who are looking for ways to engage with new audiences and get involved in science communication themselves, as well as communication practitioners or equality, diversity and inclusion professionals who want to learn how science communication and public engagement can improve the diversity of the STEM community.

Programme & Live Recordings

Monday 5 July 10:00AM - 12:00PM (BST)

SESSION 1: COMMUNICATION AS A WAY TO BECOME MORE DIVERSE

• Dr Nathalie Pettorelli, ZSL: "What does diversity in STEM have to do with science communication and public engagement?"

• Dr Jenni Chambers, Science and Technology Facilities Council: "Focusing on audience demographics to help boost diversity in STEM"

• Karen Devine, British Ecological Society: "Taking time to showcase diversity - the challenges for Learned Societies in boosting diversity in STEM"

Tuesday 6 July 10:00AM - 12:00PM (BST)

SESSION 2: SCIENCE COMMUNICATION TO SHOWCASE DIVERSITY IN THE SCIENCE COMMUNITY

• Prof Seirian Sumner, University College London: "Soapbox Science: giving a voice to women in science"

• Kerry Bailey, ZSL: "Becoming London’s Zoo: Share our approach to becoming a zoo for London’s diverse communities and engaging with local people to inspire, inform & empower them to support a world where wildlife thrives"

• Dr Alfredo Carpineti, Pride in STEM: "Being LGBTQ+ in STEM"

Wednesday 7 July 10:00AM - 12:00PM (BST)

SESSION 3: OPENING UP SCIENCES TO NEW AUDIENCES

• Dr Praveen Paul, Pint of Science: "The story of Pint of Science: the world's largest science festival"

• Dr Nicolas Bonne, Portsmouth University: "The Tactile Universe: Accessible astrophysics public engagement for vision impaired students"

• Dr Daniella Rabaiotti, ZSL: "Communicating science using social media: reaching new audiences"

Thursday 8 July 10:00AM - 12:00PM (BST)

SESSION 4: MOVING FORWARD

• James Tooze, Campaign for Science and Engineering: "Making STEM careers advice inclusive to all young people"

• Clio Heslop, British Science Association: "At the heart of what we do” – working towards a strategy for EDI & science engagement"

• Panel discussion

Further information

• If you have any questions about this event, please contact Dr Nathalie Pettorelli at nathalie.pettorelli@ioz.ac.uk.
• This event is organised by Dr Nathalie Pettorelli and Isla Watton.