Ben Landis, Science Communications Expert September 30 – October 2
Ben Landis is a professional writer and a communications strategist specializing in science, environment, and social issues. He has worked as a field biologist and newspaper journalist, and served as a public outreach specialist with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) for five years. He has led communications seminars and coachings at institutions including Duke, University of California, and University of Alabama.
Landis will return to the Nicholas School this September to host a series of workshops, conversations, and consultations for MEM and PhD students. Registration is limited, and you must sign up to participate in each event individually at the links below.
- “Getting People to Care About Science” (Wednesday, 9/30) How can we accurately explain environmental concepts while striking emotional chords with stakeholders? This discussion will include the improv activity “Donald Draper PhD” to stimulate ideas and debate on communicating science to diverse audiences.
- “Promoting Your Research thru Duke” (Wednesday, 9/30) and “Promoting Your Research to the Press” (Thursday, 10/1) This two-part seminar will introduce you to the basic process of promoting campus research, and the craft of writing a press release.
- “Ecology, Art, and Spirituality” (Thursday, 10/1) This intimate, guided dinner conversation will explore how abstract and emotional connections shape our personal motivations and professional dialogue.
- “Getting People to Care About YOU” (Friday, 10/2) Taking a page out of science communications and media outreach, we will apply these tools to build your own professional brand.
- “Career Directions in Science Communications” (Friday, 10/2) The Research Triangle is a hotbed of science communication. Members of the Science Communicators of North Carolina, a local professional network, will be on hand to answer your questions on career exploration and media engagement.
Landis will also be available for one-on-one or small group consultations on communications careers, messaging strategies, and other topics. To reserve time, please go to Career Link, click on Sign Up (at the top), log in, and sign up for a specific time slot. A representative can register for an individual or group meeting.
Follow Ben Young Landis on Twitter at @younglandis and @seefoodwrite.