Why good science communication matters for your career

Hannah Booth
Nov 20
3 min read

Updated: Nov 21

We've all heard about the need to "come down from the ivory tower" and get better at communicating our research to wider audiences. And it's a noble ambition, for sure, and one that can be immensely fulfilling — a way to personally contribute towards trust in science, give back to society in return for public funding, inspire the next generation of academics.

Yet good science communication is much more than an honourable extra, to be squeezed into our busy and stressful academic lives if and when possible. Today, it's a vital part of our career development, whatever our subject area, background, future hopes and aspirations.

Here are just some of the ways good science communication can help you in your career:

Stronger performance in job applications & interviews

Being able to communicate your research clearly and confidently is a major advantage when applying for jobs, whether you're writing a cover letter, answering interview questions or delivering a trial lecture or job talk. Hiring panels often include people who are not experts in your specific area, so the ability to explain your work without jargon can really help you stand out.

Increased networking opportunities

Good science communication can open doors. When colleagues, industry partners, policymakers and organisations can quickly grasp what you do and why it matters, they're far more likely to get in touch, recommend you or even invite you to work with them. In this sense, strong communication skills really are academic networking's best friend!

Greater success with funding & grant proposals

We all know that writing a compelling grant proposal requires a different skillset compared to writing an actual paper. After all, getting funding depends on our ability to tell a convincing story: why your research matters now and why you're the right person to carry it out. Clear, concise and persuasive communication gives your proposal a much stronger chance of success in today's highly competitive world of academic funding.

More effective teaching skills

Of course, getting better at communicating complex ideas in a clear way will also improve your performance in the lecture theatre/seminar room. Students are much more likely to ask questions and participate in discussions when they can easily follow your explanations. And don't we all want to be recognised with one of those teaching excellence awards?!

Better prepared for future career surprises

The professional world is increasingly dynamic and uncertain, with the university sector by no means an exception. Careers can take surprising turns, whether due to institutional changes, fast-moving funding landscapes or shifting personal preferences and family needs. Demonstrably strong communication skills are highly transferable and can give you a real competitive edge, if at some point you choose or are forced to move into a non-academic role.

More connection, motivation and job satisfaction

Life as a researcher can feel isolating and lonely at times, but investing some serious time in science communication can help build connections with new audiences who truly appreciate your research. And receiving recognition for your work in turn boosts motivation and job satisfaction, reminding you that all those long hours spent at the computer or in the lab are very much worth it!

Why I started my communication coaching service for academics @Smart Phrasing

I spent many years immersed in the world of academia and linguistic research specifically, exploring how language and communication really work. Along the way, I encountered a sad but all-too-common reality: many brilliant researchers struggling to communicate their research effectively, leaving them frustrated that their work wasn't getting the recognition it deserved.

Combining my passion for language, a deep understanding of academic research and the personal satisfaction I have always enjoyed from teaching and supervising others, I was inspired to create a communication coaching service specifically for researchers.

My goal is to help academics articulate the complexities of their work with confidence, clarity and impact, so that their ideas and discoveries reach the people who need to hear them.