Assistant Professor · School of Communication · Florida State University
I study how social media and new technologies shape the way the public understands science, and how scientists can communicate in ways that earn trust.
Why the CSSC Briefs
It’s about exploring how media influences our understanding of and engagement with scientific issues, and equally, communicating my own science with people and communities.
So I created the CSSC Briefs, short for Communicating the Science of Science Communication: one for every project and publication.
The more science people saw on social media, the more they expected scientists to speak up on politics, be warm and relatable, show their expertise, and engage with the public. And those who expected scientists to show competence and speak up politically trusted them more.
Science communication doesn't have to mean going viral every day. In a guide for Cell, we lay out six practices, from perfecting your elevator pitch to joining podcasts, that help scientists reach the public, each rated by how much time it takes and how far it can reach.
Only about 4% of science videos on TikTok used stitch, duet, or reply-to. But when creators did use them, scientists and influencers led the way, often to debunk misinformation. Pseudoscience used them too, and those videos got shared more.
How scientists’ communication choices on social media shape trust and engagement
Explore →What role does media play in highlighting and supporting different voices in science communication
Explore →How new media technologies are changing how scientific information is shared and consumed
Explore →