Science Communication Unit (SCU)
The Science Communication Unit (SCU) at UWE Bristol is recognised for internationally leading research, creative approaches to practice and outstanding teaching.
SCU research seeks to bring science and society closer together, and as such we have a core interest in developing research which is societally-relevant and developed in conjunction with those who practice science communication. Our portfolio of activities is extensive, including innovative approaches to engaging diverse publics with science.
We are also committed to training would-be science communicators via our Masters programme, which focuses on developing science communication practitioners with outstanding practical skills that are underpinned by science communication theory. For those wishing to develop specific skills, we offer dedicated professional development courses and workshops.
The image on the right was designed and produced by Ken McLaughlin as commissioned by the Science Communication Unit.
![Illustration of 8 multi-coloured cogs representing the core activities of the Science Communication Unit: Research, Engagement, Communication, Creativity, Vision, Idea, Concept and Inclusivity.](/-/media/uwe/images/research/centr-scu-602x602.jpg?h=602&w=602&hash=C42AE421EA8E68531F638ECF33A9C819)
About
An introduction to Science Communication Unit.
Members
Find out more about staff and students in the Science Communication Unit.
Projects
Current and past projects with a range of partners and funders.
Courses and training
Information on our postgraduate and professional and short courses.
Science Chatters
Our podcast featuring staff and students from the unit.
Events
Events run by the Science Communication Unit.
Publications
Our diverse portfolio of academic research.
Contacts
Contact the Science Communication Unit.
Science Communication Unit blog
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I’ve attended many interesting scientific conferences, but recently I was lucky enough to participate in an outstanding one. On June 7, 2024, I volunteered at the SciComm South West Conference. What set this conference apart was the inspiring enthusiasm of all participants. Speakers radiated passion for science communication and shared their energy with the audience, … Continue reading "Unreal zombies and real inclusion: my inspiration from the SciComm South West Conference"
Unreal zombies and real inclusion: my inspiration from the SciComm South West Conference
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For a field that is often perceived to be a niche branch of the wider STEM tree, the topics discussed at this year’s SciComm South West conference were remarkably diverse. Following an insightful address from keynote speakers Wyn Griffiths and Dr Lindsay Keith about the practice of inclusion in the industry, attendees were treated to … Continue reading "SciComm South West 2024: from time machines to AI illustration"
SciComm South West 2024: from time machines to AI illustration
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Find out how MSc Science Communication student Casey Spry created a podcast about UWE Bristol’s repair café Leaning against the kitchen window on a warm summer’s afternoon, I suddenly realised my first September with no plans was approaching. Feeling nervous, I scrolled through courses online when I came across one that grabbed my attention – … Continue reading "Science, sustainability, and an air fryer!"
Science, sustainability, and an air fryer!
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Discussions about zombie fungi, exoplanets, and vegetarian spiders; seamless segues; and Taylor Swift. All to be expected during a typical live Love & Science show on local Bristol radio station, BCfm Radio. Love & Science was started by former UWE Bristol SciComm lecturer Malcolm Love, many years ago. Now, it’s run by Andrew Glester, current … Continue reading "Sharing science stories on local radio – Love & Science"
Sharing science stories on local radio – Love & Science
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I was sitting near the cascade steps in Bristol City Centre when I had a rare epiphany. A guest on a podcast I was listening to mentioned that she worked as a freelance science writer, and it sounded like the dream job. Two thirds of an MSc in Science Communication later, and there I was, … Continue reading "Learning Lab: Science Focus magazine"
Learning Lab: Science Focus magazine
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In our last blog post we updated you on our 2023 Infographic data gathered from 55% (n=165) of graduates who completed the MSc Science Communication programme between 2003 and 2022. We also contacted a number of graduates requesting their participation in a case study. In this second blog post we capture some further points from … Continue reading "What happens to our science communication graduates? The Sequel Part 2"
What happens to our science communication graduates? The Sequel Part 2
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In 2016 we published an infographic that explored the career paths of our students after they completed their MSc. In 2024 we will be celebrating 20 years of our MSc science communication at UWE Bristol and we thought it would be timely to catch up with our graduates’ careers now and we’re even more impressed. … Continue reading "What happens to our science communication graduates? The Sequel Part 1"
What happens to our science communication graduates? The Sequel Part 1
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Have you heard of Learning Lab placements? They are placements are offered to students studying a MSc Science Communication with UWE Bristol’s Science Communication Unit. They are a great way to gain industry experience and network with some fantastic organizations. My name is Laura Thomas, and I am a recent postgraduate student who studied Science … Continue reading "MSc Science Communication – Learning Lab placements"
MSc Science Communication – Learning Lab placements
Research Centres and Groups
Browse UWE Bristol's portfolio of research areas, expertise, staff and publications.
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Air Quality Management Resource Centre (AQMRC)
A leading provider of information, advice, research and consultancy around air quality and carbon management.
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Centre for Transport and Society (CTS)
More information about the Centre for Transport and Society, including research projects, transport courses, news, events and opportunities.
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Centre for Water, Communities and Resilience (CWCR)
Find out more about the Centre for Water, Communities and Resilience (CWCR).
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Computer Science Research Centre (CSRC)
Undertaking fundamental and applied research in computer science.