A Career in ...
Science Communication
(Science Centres)

What prompted you to leave research?
I've always been something of a communicator - and I started to enjoy facilitating public engagement with science sometimes a little more than doing the science itself! Throughout my undergraduate studies I had the opportunity to take part in university open days and also managed to do some work with the Wellcome Trust and MRC on genetics communication. As the events diversified, my experience grew, and the evaluation forms and feedback were positive. I knew communication was for me. During the remainder of my research career, I investigated ways of communicating science and getting paid for it. When a job offer came from the At-Bristol science centre (I'd badgered them incessantly) while I was writing up my PhD, I decided to leave research.

Did you have prior experience in science communication before applying for first job outside the lab?
Yes. Lots. Though I liked communication, I was not quite sure what my chosen career path would be after my BSc, so I found a fantastic PhD project and continued to consider my options during my research. I built upon my activities at open days and events during National Science Week, and gradually secured more and more senior and demanding roles. Science festivals and Science Week were among the most effective ways to get experience at the time, as there weren't many science centres around. Participation in lots of small projects worked for me, and is still one of the best ways in to the field.

How did you find the transition from lab research to work in a science centre?
Very different. I joined a science centre in the early stages of creation where deadlines were tight, and rapid results were needed. I didn't really get on there until I had submitted my PhD (never get a job while writing up - NEVER). Once I could properly focus I moved rapidly from researcher, to exhibition developer, and eventually gained responsibility for the implimentation of the "Get Connected" digital communications gallery. At opening it wasn't clear that there would be an on-going role in Bristol, but fortunately Glasgow chose to value my skills.

What aspect of your work gives you the most job satisfaction?
Simple - it's all in visitors' faces - when I help someone to find something on the internet, or when I do a demonstration or a talk, it's their look of understanding, seeing them smile, and the thank yous when we do something right. It's not always like that, but there are certain highs unattainable elsewhere when participating in a project that attempts to make science accessible to all - and succeeds most of the time.

What qualities make a successful science communicator?
Interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, sensitivity (to a visitors needs), vitality and passion for the subject, flexibility (the job can involve unsocial hours), self-motivation and team working.

Do you have any advice for people thinking of a career in science communication?
This can be a very difficult field to get in to and it is sometimes necessary to take low paid or voluntary jobs just to get experience. The pay in science centres is relatively low (even with a higher degree and 5 years experience). and job security is rare. However, everyone in this field is committed, not in it for the money, and generally has a high level of job satisfaction (for as long as the post lasts) - it's a lifestyle choice.