SciComm FOCUS | Society and Science - How to Make Impact
A workshop offered by the Bonn Graduate Center
Scientists know a lot about their research topics, which are often of high societal relevance. Yet the public debates are often dominated by people with little understanding of science- or even contempt for the scientific approach altogether. In this workshop, we'll work on how you, as a scientist, can make an impact on society and the public debate.
Online Workshop
Monday, January 12, 2026
9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, January 13, 2026
9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Trainer
Dr. Philipp Gramlich
Language
English
Location
Online
Target Group
Doctoral students and postdocs
Track(s)
Research, Research Management, Business and Organizations
Certificate
6 units are applicable within the Doctorate plus or Careers plus certificate
Description
Scientists know a lot about their research topics, which are often of high societal relevance. Yet the public debates are often dominated by people with little understanding of science- or even contempt for the scientific approach altogether. Our voices are heard only very softly, partly due to scientific objectivity, a high value we absolutely need to retain.
Does this mean that we can't state an opinion at all? Are we not allowed to extrapolate our findings into statements about the pros and cons of specific policies? How can you be heard by people of the ivory tower? How can they understand? How can you make your messasge relevant to them? In this workshop, we'll work on how you, as a scientist, can make an impact on society and the public debate.
Content
- Understand the phases of a public debate and how this influences your communication style
- Analyse the interesrs of various stakeholders in a public debate
- Effectively publicising your topic
- The PhD stereotype: Why no one listens to you if you sound too much like a scientist
- Does scientific objectivity allow yout to make clear statements?
How to build a network of mutual support
More science communication?
This workshop is part of SciComm - our qualification offerings within science communication. The workshops are offered in three different levels of competence: SciComm BASICS | SciComm FOCUS | SciComm ADVANCED.
Contact
Bonn Graduate Center
Address
Alte Sternwarte
Poppelsdorfer Allee 47
53115 Bonn
More Workshops?
Have a look at further workshops offered in our Doctorate plus program this semester.
Also see
Certificate Doctorate plus
Acquire the Doctorate plus Certificate in one of our three career tracks and apply for an 'Add-on' in your track (job shadowing or career coaching).
E-Training
With our on-demand e-training courses, you can continue your education at your convenience.
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