Public communication and public engagement with science are increasingly valued in institutions of higher education. In this talk, Dr. Akin will discuss the concept of public communication of science, particularly focusing on how to effectively communicate your science to non-expert or ‘lay’ audiences. Dr. Akin will discuss the current landscape, challenges, and complexities of responsible communication of science along with case studies of science communication in practice.

Dr. Heather Akin is an Assistant Professor of Strategic Communication. Her research and service focus on understanding the social and psychological dynamics underlying publics’ attitudes and behaviors related to science issues and risks. Her teaching focuses on the strategic communication of science, agriculture, and the environment.