Young researchers from all over Europe are invited to take part in the International Summer School 2021. Within five days they get useful insights in the world of science communication. A diverse curriculum not only allows the participants to broaden and deepen their theoretical knowledge but also to make use of it in workshop sessions.
Foto: Pixabay
The International Summer School Communicating Science is expected to take place in Berlin in the last week of July or the first week of August 2021.
BarCamp, Science Slam, PechaKucha, Meet the Scientist – the possibilities of science communication are manifold. In addition to classic science journalism, the growing number of different formats is increasingly raising awareness of research and is making it tangible and very entertaining at the same time. Science finds its way into our everyday life in the form of podcasts or TED Talks and via social media.
But what makes a good format? What kinds of communication do different media cultures require? What is the relationship between science journalism and research? The International Summer School on the topic of Communicating Science in summer 2021 will get to the bottom of these and many other questions.
Target groups
Funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research within the context of the German EU Council presidency, the interdisciplinary event is aimed at doctoral candidates and postdocs for up to 6 years after completing their doctorate* who are currently and will still be doing research at European universities and/or research institutions during summer 2021 – regardless of their origin or nationality.
(*excluding parental leave, sick leave etc.)
Objectives and contents
First of all, the participants will get an overview of the general conditions and communication cultures and deal with forms and methods of science communication. In interactive sessions, the acquired knowledge is deepened practically, and communication strategies are developed and critically examined from an intercultural and ethical point of view.
In the course of the Summer School, the young researchers will get to know the different formats that are available to them to present their research in a clear and entertaining way. After all, every method of science communication depends on individual preferences, strengths and interests.
In addition, the importance of strategic communication with various stakeholders is a focus of attention. Exciting keynotes from experts as well as practitioners from the science communication field will provide new insights. Subsequent discussion rounds offer ample space for questions and networking. Public evening events invite participants to experience various formats live.
On the basis of the knowledge and skills gathered, the participants will then formulate joint momentum that will serve to strengthen science communication throughout Europe and continuously increase awareness of it.
Call for applications
Application is open to doctoral candidates and postdocs for up to 6 years after completing their doctorate* who are currently and will still be doing research at European universities and/or research institutions during summer 2021 – regardless of their origin or nationality.
(*excluding parental leave, sick leave etc.)
Participation is free of charge and includes catering during the conference programme. Travel and accommodation expenses will be reimbursed upon consultation.
Knowledge and experience in science communication is desirable, but not a prerequisite for participation in the event.
How to apply
The following documents must be submitted to mail@communicating-science.eu by 14.02.2021 at the latest:
Curriculum vitae in English (max. two pages, no annexes)
Motivation letter (max. 2,000 characters including spaces)
Application video (via download link)
- Duration: two to three minutes
- File format: .mp4, .mov, .avi, .mpeg
You should answer the following questions in the video:
- Who are you?
- What are you researching?
- What is your understanding of science communication?
- Why do you think it is important to communicate science effectively?
- And of course: Why do you want to participate in the Summer School?
We leave the rest to you!
The following technical tips will help you with your recording:
Some ideas for the application video
Selection procedure
The selection of participants for the International Summer School will be made by staff of Wissenschaft im Dialog and the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. Submissions will be judged on a scale (1–10) in terms of motivation, creativity, innovativeness, conciseness, argumentation structure and entertainment value. According to the total sum, the entries will be ranked and summarized in a list of the best. The best 50 submissions are expected to receive invitations to the International Summer School Communicating Science in Berlin at the end of February 2021.
Data storage
Your personal data will be stored and used by Wissenschaft im Dialog gGmbH for the organisation and realisation of International Summer School from the time of your application up to three months after the event. This data will be collected exclusively for the above mentioned purpose and will not be stored longer than necessary for the event. For further information please follow this link.
