When I first decided to share my research findings with the world, I naturally turned to social media. For me, this seemed the best way to reach a global audience with my knowledge and connect with both scientists and non-scientists.
Explaining scientific topics on social media quickly became my first science communication project. I decided what to share, when and how often to post and whom to engage with. I enjoyed this freedom immensely.
Why scientists should communicate their science on social media
In the digital age, social media platforms are – theoretically – the most powerful tools for scientists to boost their professional profiles. The sheer reach and versatility of social media posts allow scientists to act as public voices for science.
Although social media algorithms and politics have triggered many to change gears and platforms, scientists are increasingly sharing their science online. Many still use social media for their mission to raise awareness of their research or of science in general. In a recent survey by Nature, about 75% of the respondents said they use the platform Bluesky for science communication-related activities.
Obviously, I can only support this noble cause. As more and more people are connected online, social media platforms provide amazing opportunities to reach audiences that you otherwise would not interact with. Furthermore, engaging in public visibility and constructive conversations on social media platforms was shown to benefit scientists as well as research and science in general.
Perhaps you are now considering using social media (more) for your science communication activities. So, here I want to give you a few more reasons why you can and should make an impact with your science on social media. You are not only advancing your own career but can also improve society’s understanding of science and perception of scientific advancements.
Build trust in science
As we have seen in the past years, public trust in science is shaking. However, it’s important to understand that people trust people rather than abstract concepts or institutions like “science” or “scientific institutions”. Hence, by increasing people’s trust in scientists as human beings, we can improve their trust in science in general.
That is why scientists should show the human side of the scientific world and engage with society by looking for dialogues. And what better way to achieve that than turning to social media? In online settings, everyone can interact with one another, talk about any topic and answer questions related to their expertise.
I highly encourage you to engage in constructive online discussions around science. Yet, I suggest not to get involved in heated arguments or controversial debates that might damage your professional reputation. Instead, engage with scientists and non-scientists alike by joining conversations related to your field. Offer constructive comments and answers, ask questions and share helpful resources.
Help information seeking
Many people these days use social media to find relevant information to improve their lives. This includes questions about environmental issues, recycling practices, healthy eating, breastfeeding and personal hygiene. Due to the wealth of information available online, it is often tricky for non-scientists to distinguish scientifically proven and practical information from misinformation driven by profit-making institutions.
As a scientist, you can ensure that people find relevant and correct information for their questions. Provide your audience with the answers, share relevant sources and explain complex and confusing information in a language accessible to your audience. Help them make sense of the science and how it solves their problem so they can adapt the knowledge to improve their lives.
It is possible that your audience then shares their learnings with their community, online or offline. This spreads scientific knowledge even further and helps others. Hence, by sharing your knowledge with your audience and supporting them in their journeys, you will not only improve their lives but also advance society as a whole.
Raise awareness for your research
While some people may look for specific information on a certain topic, other scientific topics may not even be on their radar. So, as you raise awareness of your research, you also educate your audience and broaden their worldview. This in turn may shift society’s focus towards your field and result in better funding opportunities for your research.
Consider joining known awareness initiatives and campaigns on social media by tagging the relevant profiles or adding designated hashtags to your posts. This will broaden your reach as you tap into their audiences and reach new users.
Another type of audience to consider is young not-yet scientists. They may come across your posts, get curious and motivated and even consider becoming a scientist in your field. So, by raising awareness of your science, you may even inspire the next generation of scientists.
Grow your reputation as a scientist
As we have seen, using social media has many advantages for the public-facing aspect of science communication. Yet, being active on social media can also help advance your scientific career.
By sharing your research on social media, you improve your own credentials as a scientist. Studies showed that increased social media sharing of links to papers increased both their citations and downloads.
To promote your latest research paper, I highly recommend providing scientific context and explaining its significance to make it accessible to your community. Also, follow influential researchers, institutions and organisations in your field to stay updated and engage in fruitful discussions on the latest research trends, news and breakthroughs.
Build your niche scientific community
I know from experience that the competitiveness of the scientific world and the constant moving as a scientist can lead to a feeling of loneliness. That is why growing professional relationships within the scientific community is incredibly important for your career and your mental health.
Connecting online with peers from across the globe will both grow your social circle and advance the scientific field. Often, scientists discuss scientific topics with another online or provide answers to each other’s questions. You may even get along well enough to start a scientific collaboration.
Your social media presence also benefits scientists interested in working with or for you. They can reach out directly via social media, interact with you and get to know you better. This gives you a great opportunity to make a strong first impression and help them in their decision process.
Many real-world social interactions these days are also based on interesting social media discussions. Prior conversations on social media platforms often serve as icebreakers for scientists once they finally meet in person at a conference or workshop.
Lastly, covering conferences on social media helps those scientists who are unable to attend that conference. Social media streams from conferences provide access to scientific content as well as opportunities to interact and start interesting conversations. Scientists following a conference social media stream may also be introduced to new researchers in the field, early-career scientists or new users.
Get started with science communication on social media
As you have seen, there are several advantages for you to leverage social media for your science communication efforts. And I agree that the sheer range of social media platforms to choose from can be overwhelming. A good idea is to start with the platform that you like hanging out on. You probably already have some followers and people know you, so it is only a matter of leveraging them for a professional presence.
When setting up your social media profile, it might feel weird at first to say you are an expert on X or Z. But the truth is, you are! So, ask yourself what you want to be known for on social media. Do you want to be “the bacteria lady” or “the genetics guy”? Just take your research field as a broad category for yourself and show confidence that you are an expert in that field.
Write a compelling bio containing the keywords with which you want other scientists to find you. Relate them to your research but also to your profile and presence on social media.
Start writing posts about the research that you are doing. Explain why you are interested in this topic and why your studies are relevant to society. For people to appreciate what you are doing, explain how your research affects them in their daily lives or describe real-life situations where it applies.
Invite your audience to participate in the conversation. Ask them what they want to know about your field and which topic or concept they are struggling to understand. Not only will this increase your post’s reach but also give you ideas about what your audience is interested in learning and what to post about in the future.
Make an impact with your science on social media
No doubt, putting yourself out on social media and talking openly about your passion can be scary and even make you feel vulnerable. But social media is truly one of the easiest ways to reach a global audience and share your science meaningfully.
So remember, by sharing your research in an accessible and engaging way, you do not just educate others about science. You advance society, help build trust in science, inspire curiosity and do your share to create a world where science is for everyone.
Are you ready to step out of your science bubble and into the exciting world of science communication? Check out our free email course on how to make an impact with your science on social media.
Let’s be brave and bold together and make science accessible, one post at a time.
