OVERVIEW
This in-person workshop will provide participants with the tools, confidence, and practical know-how to engage the public with research in materials science and STEM fields in meaningful and inclusive ways.
Designed for those new to outreach and public engagement, or those looking to reflect on and improve their practice; the workshop offers interactive activities, expert guidance, and opportunities to learn about best practices in public engagement and to develop effective, inclusive outreach activities.
Topics will include the principles of outreach and public engagement, effective science communication, storytelling techniques, inclusive engagement strategies, and practical considerations for delivering impactful outreach. Participants will explore different engagement formats and take part in guided discussions and reflection activities.
BACKGROUND & MOTIVATION
Effective public engagement is central to building trust in science, creating societal impact, and enhancing the relevance of research. This workshop supports researchers, academics, technical and professional staff in developing confident, thoughtful, and inclusive science communication skills.
Hosted by Royce and led by Sarah Cosgriff, a trainer with extensive experience in science communication and public engagement, this interactive training event will help participants explore a range of public engagement approaches.
Participants will also engage with real outreach resources developed by the Royce team and consider how to adapt them for different audiences and environments, from schools to festivals to online platforms.
AUDIENCE
This workshop is open to PhD students, Postdoctoral Research Associates (PDRAs), Research Technical Professionals (RTPs), and Professional Services (PS) staff in STEM fields, particularly in materials science and engineering, who are interested in sharing their knowledge with the wider public. No prior outreach experience is required.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:
- Define public engagement and understand its value in research and society
- Tailor communication for a range of audiences
- Explore inclusive engagement practices and address potential barriers
- Apply storytelling techniques in outreach
- Reflect on the practical aspects of planning and delivering public engagement activities
- Use and adapt existing outreach resources provided by the Henry Royce Institute
PROVISIONAL PROGRAMME
09:30–10:00 – Arrival, registration and refreshments
10:00–10:10 – Welcome and Overview
10:10–11:25 – Defining Public Engagement and Identifying Audiences
11:25–11:35 – Break
11:35–12:30 – Inclusivity and Storytelling in Public Engagement
12:30–13:30 – Lunch (questions via flipchart)
13:30–14:30 –Outreach Activity Showcase
14:30–14:40 – Break
14:40–15:30 – Effective Planning and Delivery of Outreach Activities
15:30–15:45 – Discussion and Q&A
15:45–16:00 – Wrap-Up and Next Steps
TRAINERS & ORGANISERS
- Sarah Cosgriff, Award-winning science communicator and specialist in equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI)
- Dr Alice La Porta, National Outreach Officer, Henry Royce Institute
ROYCE SUPPORT
This is a free training workshop run by the Henry Royce Institute. Travel and accommodation is not provided. Please contact outreach@royce.ac.uk if you have accessibility requirements or caring responsibilities that Royce might be able to assist with.
APPLICATIONS
Places are limited and will be allocated based on strength of application, relevance to the field, and interest in outreach.
Application deadline: 09:00, Monday 23 June 2025.
Registration Form Link below:
