Why I Chose a Career in Science Communication

By Sara Shahbaz

Bridging Worlds: Why I’m Pursuing a Career in Science Communication

Science communication has changed dramatically over the past few decades. Once referred to by terms like “popularisation of science” or “public understanding of science,” the field was historically about distilling complex ideas for public consumption, often through a one-way lens where experts “taught” the non-experts. The assumption used to be that if people just had more facts, they would understand and appreciate science.

Over time, we have come to realise that science is not just a collection of facts. It is also about context, connection, and credibility. It is about telling stories that make people feel something and understand how science weaves into the fabric of our everyday lives. Today’s science communication is not a monologue, but a conversation, a vital bridge between research and society.

Where My Interest Began

My background in public health first sparked my interest in how science interacts with society. I wanted to explore how scientific knowledge could reach people, influence decisions, and improve lives, and I found that my passions lie outside the traditional lab environment. I became fascinated by the power of language and narrative in breaking down complex topics for different audiences, revealing the person behind the statistic.

Why Science PR Matters

Among the many branches of science communication, public relations is perhaps one of the most powerful and far-reaching. Science PR helps translate complex discoveries into compelling and relevant narratives, increases the accessibility of research findings, informs public discourse and perceptions and builds trust in life science institutions.

In a time of rapid spread of misinformation and fragile public trust in science, PR plays a critical role in shaping how the public understands and engages with science. It ensures that findings do not just reach other scientists, but also policymakers, educators, and everyday people who rely on science to make informed decisions about their health, their communities, and their future.

To me, working in science PR means giving people the tools to think critically, ask questions, and see themselves reflected in scientific narratives.

Science communication, at its best, brings people together. It is a collaborative effort rooted in curiosity, empathy, and a shared desire to make the world better. I am drawn to this field because it aligns with both my values and my skills, which include a love of writing, a belief in the power of storytelling, and a commitment to helping others understand the world through a scientific and compassionate lens.