Miriam Hurley, University of Leeds, UK

https://doi.org/10.36866/pn.113.47

Why does a researcher devote endless time and energy to answering a scientific question? One reason is to conquer the challenge of scientific research in order to uncover the mysteries of our own physiology. Equally important is the great benefit that our discoveries can bring to society. To enable this, it is imperative to communicate the outcomes of the research that we undertake to the general public. In June, The Physiological Society’s Public Engagement Training Day gave attendees practical tips for starting public engagement.

Over the course of the day, we were challenged to consciously consider the words and phrases that we use when communicating our research. For example, what is the most accessible definition of heart failure? We were asked to explain our research in one sentence, either to our peers, a member of the public, or a family member. It surprised me how difficult this was. We had to be aware of who we were talking to and the environment that we were talking within, whilst simultaneously being engaging and succinct.

Across the course of the day we heard from many working within the field of science communication as to how they undertake public engagement. For example, we heard about science communicated in the form of informative videos, interactive activities such as “The Race to Sleep” board game and the presentation of science through history. We learnt that the aim of such an event is to create a dialogue about physiology in a way that is fun, interactive and educational. Specifically, when establishing a public engagement event we were advised to practice our event beforehand and use evaluation tools afterwards to obtain invaluable feedback. This would enable the continual development of the event to achieve the aim of communicating science in the most accessible way.

The day ended with an opportunity to consider our own scientific outreach as we asked ourselves “what’s next?” I pledged to “establish a public engagement event relating to my research”. I organised an event on 12 October 2018 to promote Physiology Friday. With the use of smartphone microscopes and visual impairment glasses, we discussed with students at The University of Leeds, how the technological advancement in microscopy has enabled a greater understanding of our own physiology. This event was in partnership with The Physiological Society, who generously provided funding, resources, and support to enable my pledge to be fulfilled.

I challenge you to make a pledge, inspired by the values of The Physiological Society, so that we can give our scientific research the voice it deserves and promote the value of STEM subjects to the next generation. Email outreach@physoc.org with any questions or ideas.