Beyond Research:

Fostering connections through science communication

Science can't speak for itself - but you can!

Science shapes everything from daily decisions to global policy—but only when people understand it. Clear, confident communication turns research into relevance and discovery into impact. Whether you’re strengthening your institution’s outreach or advancing your own career, developing these skills builds trust, sparks curiosity, and helps science truly serve the world it seeks to explain.

Only 30% of Americans can name a living scientist.

Why science communication matters

The problem isn't the science, it's making the connection.

The latest Research!America national poll shows that while Americans overwhelmingly value science, they still struggle to connect with it in meaningful ways:

  • Only one in three Americans can name a living scientist.
  • Half don’t realize science and technology research happens in all 50 states.
  • 85% agree scientists should consider it part of their job to share their research and its impact with the public.
  • Yet only six in ten think the work of scientists benefits all or most people in the U.S.
  Read the full Research America report here

This disconnect highlights why communication is a professional essential—not an optional extra.

In fact, the American Geosciences Institute's Vision and Change in the Geosciences report claims employers and academics rank the ability to explain science clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences as second only to critical thinking in importance.

When scientists can translate discovery into understanding, they not only inform—they strengthen trust, inspire investment, and help ensure science truly serves everyone.

  Read the full Vision and Change report here

How does science become something the public can see, hear, and connect with?

SCoPE is helping subject matter experts (SMEs)—scientists, engineers, and researchers—move their work beyond the lab and into public view. Through training, collaboration, and real-world opportunities, SCoPE supports experts in making their science more visible, approachable, and impactful.

In this video, hear from SMEs who are stepping into the spotlight to share their knowledge, spark curiosity, and show the human side of science. Whether they’re working with educators, designing digital experiences, or speaking directly to communities, these experts are redefining what public engagement looks like—one connection at a time. Discover what happens when science is made visible.

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When science feels out of reach

When people can’t see themselves in science, they’re less likely to support it. Many don’t realize that research happens in all 50 states or that their neighbor, teacher, or choir member might be a scientist. This distance reinforces outdated stereotypes of science as remote or inaccessible.

But when scientists connect authentically, sharing not just results but the human curiosity behind them, they build trust, transparency, and community. They show that science is not something that happens elsewhere, but something that shapes and serves our shared world.

Why communication strengthens research

84% of surveyed Americans claim scientists are the most trusted sources of medical and health information, just behind doctors and nurses. Science communication isn’t an add-on. It’s a skill thatstrengthens both research and researchersand builds trust in the community. By learning to tell compelling stories, simplify without losing substance, and listen to public perspectives, scientists can:

  • Advance their careers through clearer proposals / presentations,
  • Foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and
  • Help communities see how science improves everyday life.

Beyond Research exists to close this gap, giving scientists the tools, confidence, and creativity to make their work resonate far beyond the lab.

Choose your path - one mission, two ways to grow

Whether you’re leading a team or developing your own career, science communication skills unlock new ways to share discoveries, inspire audiences, and expand impact.

Our Beyond Research model is designed to meet you where you are — offering flexible training for organizations building institutional capacity and for individuals ready to elevate their professional reach.

For institutions

Build capacity and culture. Empower your grad students, postdoctoral scholars, scientists, researchers, and outreach professionals with customized, evidence-based training and practical application exercises.

Our team partners with universities, research centers, and organizations to:

  • Design live and online workshops tailored to your goals,
  • Develop cohort-based training programs for long-term growth,
  • Connect with local communities to foster ongoing engagement, and
  • Evaluate outcomes to measure impact and improvement.

Outcome: A stronger, more connected team that communicates science with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Explore institutional programs

For individuals

Advance your skills and story. Whether you’re preparing for your first interview, giving a public talk, or writing a proposal, our interactive workshops and on-demand modules help you translate your research into messages that resonate.

You’ll gain practical tools for:

  • Telling your science story effectively,
  • Speaking with confidence to any audience,
  • Fostering community connections, and
  • Building communication skills that advance your career.

Outcome: A clearer, more confident communicator — ready to make your science matter.

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