Foundations of science communication | GRTC301

Want to learn how to increase public interest in scientific issues, provide information that can influence policy decisions, or engage diverse audiences in your research? 
This foundational session will help you build skills for communicating your research beyond academia, focusing on how to translate complex ideas for non-specialist audiences. You’ll gain a framework for tailoring your message to policymakers, community groups, industry partners, and the general public, and practice strategies that make your work clear, relevant, and impactful. These skills will strengthen your ability to share your research, inspire interest, and contribute to public understanding and dialogue around science. 

Prativa Baral, MPH, PhD is an epidemiologist, a global health consultant, and an expert in global health security, health systems resilience, and health emergencies, operating at the nexus of epidemiology, policy, and advocacy. She has consulted for the World Bank, the WHO, the UN, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Government of Canada and has featured in various media outlets including CBC, CTV, the Gazette, the World Economic Forum, and Forbes. Prativa strongly believes in bridging science communication gaps between academia and the rest of the world. She’s an Assistant Professor and Deputy Director of the Pandemic and Energency Readiness Lab at McGill University, and a Faculty Associate of John Hopkins School of Public Health.  

Jasmine Mah, MD, MSc, PhD is a physician and researcher who cares for older adults in Geriatric Medicine. Dr. Mah is a Canadian Medical Association Young Leader, recipient of the Association of Faculties of Medicine Learner Changemaker Award and winner of Dalhousie University’s Three-Minute Thesis. She has featured in SaltWire, Conversation Canada, CBC, CTV and Global News. She straddles the worlds of clinical, academic, policy and not-for-profits, and firmly believes in equipping others with the knowledge and skills to succeed in advocating for their needs.  

This workshop is hosted by Volt-Age, in collaboration with LEADS.