We may not always think of it this way, but a huge part being a scientist is doing talks and making presentations. And, yes, doing so at conferences, to colleagues and potential collaborators. But, also, let’s be real — to potential donors, who are much more of a lay audience.
But, how does someone know how to do this? How many who have spent their academic careers on STEM tracks have ever been taught how to talk?
“We get students coming in here who are very bright, very talented, who have never had any training in public speaking,” said Adam Case, Ph.D., assistant professor of cellular and integrative physiology.
“It’s part of the job, but nobody formally teaches it — they just expect you to pick it up.”
The result, Dr. Case said, is a long learning curve resulting in too many boring talks and bad presentations. And even other scientists hate those.
You’re not likely to network with someone who lost you in the weeds or lets you drift off.
But now, UNMC is doing something to officially prepare its products for this part of the job. Dr. Case is teaching a new course — “Scientific Communication” — open to second-year or higher graduate and professional students. This will be formal training in how to give a great talk — seminars, elevator pitches, chalk talks and the like. Not to mention the ability to explain the importance of your work to neighbors, relatives or the average friendly local millionaire.
Dr. Case hopes those who take the class will come out of it with a complete and practiced conference presentation.
And that’s huge. Giving an impressive talk opens doors for young scientists, Dr. Case said.
But, don’t hammer the audience with data or jargon. Instead, make a connection first — and they’ll ask you about your work.
Dr. Case is passionate about the power of public speaking. His parents enrolled him in lessons, he said, when he was in fifth grade. Throughout school, he competed in speech and debate. He’s been accepted into the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science’s STEM Immersion program, and expects to learn more there.
Yes, some of us are natural communicators and others aren’t. But, Dr. Case aims to arm his students with the confidence that comes with practice, practice, practice, while also introducing them to a bag full of tools, tips and tricks.
This is fantastic. Great job, Dr. Case!
This is fantastic and much required for our grad students!!! Looking forward to its success.
Awesome! Dr. Case’s teaching will have a wonderful effect on his students and their work—and all of us—for years to come.
Good for Adam! Should probably be a required course for all!
Excellent opportunity for UNMC grad students – thank you Adam for offering this course!