Szkoła Doktorska UŚ

Each of us has encountered individuals or moments that left an indelible mark on our imagination—people whose brilliance inspired us, events that shaped our choices. Without them, our lives might have taken entirely different trajectories: we could have chosen different careers, pursued alternative passions, or embraced another way of life. But have you ever wondered in what way these transformative experiences shaped your self-perception? How they helped you discover your fascinations, recognize your talents, or define your values? And what are the broader implications of these choices, not just for us individually but for society as a whole?

We are now at the most productive moment of our lives: the third decade of the 21st century is ours to shape. More than ever before, science communication is essential—and it is no longer optional. Why? Because without it, our fellow humans may be vulnerable to misinformation and manipulation. Because Artificial Intelligence, increasingly influencing public discourse, more and more often does the "thinking" for living people, who then post automatically generated content online. And above all, because fabricated “truths”—widely disseminated via social media—directly impact our well-being, the health of our planet, and our collective safety.

This seminar explores why engaging with the public benefits both the academic community and society. Over the course of this 6-hour, in-person workshop, PhD students will develop practical skills for communicating their research to the public, policymakers, and media. Through storytelling techniques, media strategies, and digital tools, we will analyze the methods of successful science communicators in Poland and globally. Our mission: to make our research more accessible and impactful, without compromising its accuracy or depth.

Together, we will examine how public trust in science is built through clear and accessible communication, and analyze the dangers of misinformation when scholars choose to remain disconnected from non-specialist audiences. We will debate on the role of researchers in shaping public understanding—from climate change to artificial intelligence to individual sense of well-being. We will also explore how to balance simplicity for accessibility with academic integrity.

And, of course, we will practice!