Please note that this session is open to research students at Birkbeck, University of London only.

Overview

Social media is now an important means of communication, with scientists increasingly using microblogging services to “tweet” about their own research, sharing links, results and crucially, engaging in a discussion with the broader community. Indeed, scientists attending symposia and conferences increasingly use tweets to engage with presentations in real-time, defined as “live-tweeting”. The ability to accurately and succinctly summarise complex ideas is an essential skill in modern life. These tweets are often the catalysts to further discussion and networking which occurs in the breaks between talks.

We are holding a training course covering the “ten simple rules of live tweeting at scientific conferences”. The training course will consist of two activities: (i) a training session and (ii) an activity at the ISMB symposium. The aim of this course is to familiarise the students with the use of social media and its relevance in the context of effective scientific communication.

Attendees will be encouraged to develop a social media profile and to establish the skills needed for effective communication of science online.

Who is this session for?

This course is open to all postgraduate researchers at Birkbeck.

Researcher Development Framework

☒ A2 Cognitive abilities

☒ A3 Creativity

☒ B3 Professional and career development

☒ C1 Professional conduct

☒ D2 Communication and dissemination

☒ D3 Engagement and impact