The workshop is aimed at postdoctoral and doctoral researchers. It raises awareness of the importance of impact, encourages participants to engage with the topic, and provides practical suggestions for considering societal impact as early as the planning and conduct of research. At the heart of the workshop is the question of how excellent research can find its way into societal, economic or political application – ideally contributing to making the world a better place.

Note: You will be working on your own research project! In preparation, you have to prepare a one-pager of your research project in advance and submit it along with your registration. These documents will form the basis for targeted preparation.

Trainer: Christoph Köller

What happens when a journalist contacts you about your research? How do you explain complex findings clearly, give a good interview, and make sure your key messages aren’t lost along the way?

This workshop is designed for researchers who would like to feel more confident engaging with journalists and communicating their research to a wider audience. Rather than focusing on social media or general science communication, the workshop concentrates on the specific skills involved in working with journalists: identifying a compelling story, pitching research, answering questions clearly, giving memorable interviews, and staying focused on the messages that matter. 

Participants will practise turning academic research into a concise and engaging pitch, develop and deliver short interview answers, and experiment with techniques for handling difficult or unexpected questions. Particular attention will be given to “bridging” techniques that allow researchers to answer a question honestly while returning to the key message they want to communicate. The is an interactive workshop, with short inputs followed by practical exercises, peer feedback, and mock interviews. By the end of the three-hours, participants will leave with a clearer understanding of what journalists need from researchers, greater confidence giving interviews, and a set of practical techniques they can use the next time a journalist calls.

Trainer: Christine Coester, Impact Unit iDiv

Which services and tools at UFZ can support you in putting your ideas into practice and creating impact? In this workshop, you will get to know internal support services and useful resources available at UFZ. Discover the opportunities available to you and how you can use them for your own projects and further career development.

Trainer: UFZ's WTT team