Writing about Research for Impact & Influence

Effective science communication has long held the power to reshape our world by driving changes in policy and public opinion. As society struggles with pandemic effects, anthropogenic climate change, and dwindling biodiversity, there is an acute need for scientist–communicators who can effectively convey the spectacular power of research to address these obstacles. In this course, early-career researchers will learn skills for high-impact, immediate engagement with readers, including decision-makers, colleagues, and members of the lay public. Unlike traditional writing courses, this course is focused on capturing audience attention in concrete ways that compel action, using common professional formats such as op-eds, memoranda, press releases, one-pagers, and blog entries. The workshop-driven program also includes instruction on publishing mechanics, covering topics such as pitching your work to editors, establishing an online presence, and achieving proficiency with graphic design fundamentals.

This online course consists of pre-recorded lectures, each of which has an associated short writing assignment. Students will meet live each week with the instructor for a small-group workshop in which they will share and critique each other’s work (see schedule under DATES).

• Course opens April 1 and closes June 22

• Live instruction: Thursdays April 3 - May 8, 2025

None

Week 1:

• Science Blogging: Taking advantage of existing platforms, as well as setting up your own.

Week 2:

• One Pagers: Using online tools to design eye-catching flyers and infographics.

Week 3:

• Press Releases: Writing for newswires and science journalism outlets, with additional information on working with institutional communications professionals to help promote your work.

Week 4:

• Media: Getting set up, finding your voice, and having an impact (even if your existing following is small).

Week 5:

• Op-Eds and Commentaries: Persuasive writing for the general public and policymakers.

Week 6:

• Memoranda: Writing to drive decision-making within your organization.

• Synthesis: Bringing the course's approach to bear on other forms of writing and positioning yourself to say "yes" when there's an opportunity to write.

FORMAT:

• 3 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace 

• Get live instructor support via group meetings, email, discussion threads, and one-on-one appointments

• After working through the course materials, set up an optional meeting with the instructor to discuss your own personal project from work or school

CONTINUING EDUCATION:

• 16 CEUs with The Wildlife Society

• 4 CEUs in Category I(a): Scientific Education and Training with the Ecological Society of America

• Go to our Continuing Education Page for more details

CERTIFICATIONS:

• Earn 1 credit toward certification as an Associate/Certified Wildlife Biologist® with The Wildlife Society

FORMAT:

• 12 months of access to course materials as you work at your own pace 

• Get instructor support for the 3-month term via email, discussion threads, group meetings, and one-on-one appointments

CONTINUING EDUCATION:

• 16 CEUs with The Wildlife Society

• 4 CEUs in Category I(a): Scientific Education and Training with the Ecological Society of America

• Go to our Continuing Education Page for more details

CERTIFICATIONS:

• Earn 1 credit toward certification as an Associate/Certified Wildlife Biologist® with The Wildlife Society

• Earn 1 credit towards a professional certificate in Conservation Planning with CWS

ACADEMIC CREDIT:

• Earn 1 academic credit (go to our Academic Credit Page for details)

• Earn an additional 1-2 academic credits with an Applied Project