SciComm Webinar Series

SciComm webinars open to all

Throughout September, the SCIP program is hosting the creation of six virtual sessions focusing on various SciComm skills. Sessions will be led by experts in the field and range from 1 hour to 1.5 hours long. We invite you all to join no matter where you are in your science communication journey and learn about strategies and techniques when creating products.

The 2024-2025 SciComm Webinar Series is available here.

2025-2026 Series Schedule 

The Art of the Interview

Facilitated by Justin Cox

Interviewing is not just about asking questions. It’s about understanding your audience, preparing thoughtfully, and putting your subject in a position to provide valuable information. We will explore techniques for creating an atmosphere that encourages openness, which will help you gather not only the information you seek but also unexpected insights. You’ll learn how to adapt your process based on what kind of final product you’re producing (print, digital, audio, video, etc.) while maintaining the core principles of a great interview. Learning to be an effective interviewer can sharpen your curiosity and elevate your everyday conversations. Whether you’re a journalist, podcaster, or simply looking to enhance your ability to communicate complex information, this talk will level you up for future interviews.

• Who is this for?: Anyone looking to obtain valuable and novel information from interview subjects with the goal of telling compelling stories and creating powerful science communication products.
• Career Level: Useful to all career levels.
• Prerequisite Education or Experience: None.

September 8, 2025 4:00-5:00 PM ET

An Introduction to Accessible Digital Communications

Facilitated by Alex Lindeman

This training is a broad overview of how to ensure your digital communications of all mediums (e.g., documents, social media, webpage content, etc.) are accessible and compliant with federal law (i.e., Section 508). This is awareness-level training, because the topic is quite complex and too big to fit into a single hour. However, by the end, attendees will know the basics of how to comply with Section 508 technical standards; will know how to use automated tools to check for common accessibility failures; and will know where they can go to learn more specifics throughout their career.

• Who is this for? People who are new to digital accessibility, or who have only awareness level.
• Career Level: Useful to all career levels.
• Prerequisite Education or Experience? None required, though experience with common tools such as AdobeAcrobat and the Microsoft suite recommended.

September 15, 2025 4:00-5:00 PM ET

Participation worth 0.25 CEUs toward ESA recertification Category I(b)

Using Augmented Reality for Science Communication

Facilitated by Madison Jones

Augmented reality, among other emerging media, are changing how we communicate and share stories. AR is a powerful tool that can bridge the gap between abstract concepts and immersive experiences. In this session, participants will learn how, with just a smartphone, they can capture and share three important types of AR content: video overlays, annotated images, and interactive 3D models. This session will explore how these formats can enhance science storytelling, engagement, and public understanding. Through a hands-on walkthrough of the Hoverlay platform, attendees will learn how to design, upload, and deploy AR elements to elevate outreach efforts.

• Who is this for? This webinar is designed for science communicators, educators, researchers, and students who are interested in learning how to use emerging digital tools to make scientific information more engaging and accessible. Participants should be curious about visual communication strategies and open to experimenting with interactive technologies.
• Career Level:
  • Students
  • Recent Graduates
  • Early–Career Professionals
  • Mid-Career Professionals
  • Senior professionals are welcome to attend, but the session is designed with entry- to mid-level users in mind.
• Prerequisite Education or Experience? No prior technical background in AR or 3D modeling is required. Familiarity with basic digital tools (e.g., presentation software, social media, or digital publishing) is helpful, but not necessary.

September 22, 2025 4:00-5:00 PM ET

Visual Storytelling for Scientists

Facilitated by Eunah Preston

Visuals are one of the most powerful tools scientists have to communicate their work, inspire curiosity, and motivate action. This session will introduce early career scientists to the principles and practices of visual storytelling, whether creating scientific posters, presentations, social media posts, or interpretive signage for parks. Participants will learn how to design clear, engaging visuals that cut through complexity, translate science for diverse audiences, and connect people more deeply with nature and conservation. By the end of the talk, participants will leave with practical tools to elevate their science communications and ensure their work has real-world impact.

Learning objectives include:

• Define visual storytelling and explain its role in effective science communication
• Apply core design principles to improve visuals
• Identify best practices for using visuals across different communication channels
• Translate complex scientific information into clear, engaging visuals for diverse audiences

 

• Who is this for? SCIP Fellows and other scientists interested in advancing their science communications skills, particularly around visual storytelling.
• Career Level: Useful to all career levels.
• Prerequisite Education or Experience? No prior experience required, though undergraduate degree at a minimum would be preferred for purposes of the presentation and discussion.

September 29, 2025 4:00-5:00 PM ET