Academic Outreach

In today’s academic world, effectively sharing your research beyond your immediate field is becoming increasingly valuable. Getting your work seen on social media, or through radio, television, and written media, can significantly boost your profile and impact as a researcher. While engaging with the public and media can take time and feel a bit daunting, this workshop gives you the practical tools and a clear plan to confidently step into the world of traditional and social media.

This is about proactively developing your skills as a communicator, helping you:

• Prepare for future opportunities that require strong communication skills.
• Increase your research’s visibility in broader society.
• Connect with new audiences and potential collaborators.
• Grow your role as a public-facing academic.

What You Will Learn

This workshop is designed to introduce you to the world of media and equip you with a personalized strategy for effective public engagement. We blend foundational theory with hands-on practice.

Part 1: Strategy & Intent We start with an open discussion about the opportunities and considerations of academic outreach. You’ll explore why and why not to engage, helping you develop a personal media strategy that aligns with your research goals and target audiences. You’ll also learn how to identify the specific media channels that best suit your approach.

Part 2: Practical Engagement The second part focuses on how to actually do it. You’ll gain insight into how media operate and what journalists expect from you. By understanding their workflow, you’ll learn how to effectively guide their attention to your research. We conclude with actionable steps and practical tips to help you take confident first steps in your outreach journey.

Teaching Methods

This workshop employs a dynamic and interactive approach, combining:

• Clear Theory: Essential background on media landscapes and communication principles.
• Practical Instructions: Step-by-step guidance on crafting messages and engaging with media.
• Group Discussions: Opportunities to share insights and learn from peers.
• Hands-on Exercises: Applying learned concepts directly to your own research.

You’ll receive personalized feedback from our experienced trainers throughout the sessions, ensuring guidance tailored to your specific outreach goals.

Practical Details

• Instructors: Marten van der Meulen or Elena Milani (researchers) and Hermen Visser or Bouwe van Straten (science journalists).
• Language: English or Dutch
• Duration: 6 hours of group sessions, complemented by 2 hours of self-paced homework.
• Optional Addition: An individual 1-hour feedback session is available to provide personalized guidance on your media strategy.
• Maximum Participants: 10
• Format: This is an in-company workshop, organized for research groups, departments, or institutions.

Special Note for Leiden University / LUMC PhD Students: This workshop is freely available to you via HRM Learning & Development.

Broaden Your Research’s Reach.

Ready to gain the practical skills for effective academic outreach? Contact us to discuss organizing an Academic Outreach workshop for your group or institution.

Organize Your Academic Outreach Workshop