Science Communication
Transfer of expert knowledge to society
Traget group: PhD candidates and Postdoctoral researchers
Language: German
Duration of the program: 9 month
Applications for the Science Communication program are now being accepted. The application deadline is June 15, 2026. Pleae note: The program language is German. You can find all the information about the program, participation fees, and the application process on the German website.
If you have any further questions, please join us for the online Q&A session on May 18, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM.
Here is the link to the Q&A session:
https://uni-potsdam.zoom-x.de/j/67734318416
Meeting ID: 677 3431 8416
Passcode: 41604161
The program is offered on an annual rotation with the Science Management program.
Program Overview
Science communication has become a central component of researchers’ work. It makes research insights accessible beyond the academic context, promotes understanding of complex topics within society, and strengthens trust in science and research. It also facilitates dialogue with diverse audiences, ranging from policymakers and the media to schools and the general public. Furthermore, it is receiving increasing attention in the application process for externally funded projects. The transfer of expert knowledge as a task of science communication is more important than ever.1
The program is designed for PhD candidates and advanced researchers across all disciplines. The transfer of research outcomes and knowledge, as well as communication with the public and policymakers, are central themes of the program. Experts from the field provide insights into the areas of public relations, online journalism, visualization, crisis communication, and political consulting. Comprehensive media training completes the program. During the program, participants develop a communication strategy tailored to their research and target audience.
The goal is to present complex scientific topics in a way that is accessible to the general public and tailored to the target audience. A key factor is knowing which content, channels, and formats are best suited for the specific purpose. Never before has it been so easy for the scientific community to engage with the public and involve them. The responsibility on the part of the scientific community in communicating content is correspondingly great (see: Guidelines for good Science Commnication.pdf, Wissenschaft im Dialog & Bundesverband für Hochschulkommunikation).
1PoGS used ChatGPT to generate the first section of this text.
Program goals
The main objective of the program is to develop communication and media skills:
- You will analyze the concept of “science communication” in relation to your own research,
- You will practice working with different media: which ones suit you personally and your topic?
- You will practice communicating complex topics clearly across different formats,
- You will develop your own target-audience-specific communication strategy,
- You will gain insights into policy consulting, and
- develop your own communication project.
