Sense about Science: Standing up for Science Media Workshop, Edinburgh, 21 November

To all early-career researchers in the biological sciences:

• Are you passionate about your research?
• Do you think it is important for good science and evidence to be
  communicated to a wider audience?
• What can you do about misconceptions and misinformation about
  science?

Science in the media: What happens when research announcements go wrong; statistics are
manipulated; risk factors are distorted; or discussions become polarised?

Speakers: Professor John Atkinson, Associate Dean Research & Commercialisation, School of Health Nursing and Midwifery, University of The West of Scotland; Dr Dave Reay, Lecturer in Carbon Management, University of Edinburgh; Dr Debbie Wake, Clinician in Endocrinology, Diabetes and General Medicine, NHS Lothian; Dr Shaun Treweek, Health Services researcher, Dundee University.

What journalists are looking for: How do journalists approach stories? Balance the need for news and entertainment with reporting science? And deal with accusations of polarising debates and mis-representing the facts?

Speakers: Fiona MacRae, The Daily Mail; Margaret McCartney, The Financial Times; and others to be confirmed!

Standing up for science; the nuts and bolts: What is there for early career researchers to play for? Not yet the leaders in the field what can you do to encourage good science and evidence in the public domain? This session offers practical guidance for early career researchers to get their voices heard in debates about science; how to respond to bad science when you see it; and top tips for if you come face-to-face with a journalist!

Speakers: Ellen Raphael, Director, Sense About Science; Alice Tuff, Voice of Young Science; Ronald Kerr, Press and PR Manager, University of Edinburgh.

These workshops are very popular and there are only 40 places available. The closing date for applications is 24 October. For more information see Sense about Science: Voice of Young Science