ECR Network: How to Engage the Public with your Research

The second Early Career Researcher Network event of this term will take place on Thursday 4 February between 12noon and 2pm, and will focus on how to engage the public with your research.

The idea of engaging the public with your research has becoming increasingly important over recent years, and was given added impetus with the introduction of ‘impact’ in 2008. Impact was measured in the last REF, and rumour has it that it will be even more important in the next exercise. But what do we mean by impact, public engagement, outreach and public involvement? What is the difference between these terms that are often used synonymously? And how can academics ensure that they are maximising this important element of their work?

This session will be led by Prof Paul Allain (Arts) and Dr Vicky Mason (SPS), both of whom have had considerable experience in outreach, engagement and impact. The new Impact and Engagement Officer, Maddy Bell, will also be on hand to discuss people’s ideas. However, as ever the ECRN session is an opportunity to talk to others at the same point in their career, to share your experience, and to offer help and advice to each other.

Lunch will be provided. The event is free and open to all, but places are limited so please let me know if you intend to come along. If you would like to come, I will ask you to draft a brief outline paragraph of your research and (if appropriate) any public engagement plans you have, so that these can be the focus of small-group discussions.