Science Communication Training

Overview

The Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) and the University of Southern Maine (USM) have launched a joint Science Communication Training Program to train undergraduate students to effectively bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding of marine and digital science. This internship will allow USM undergraduates to work directly with GMRI scientists and communications staff, preparing them for careers in those fields.

Students will benefit from both comprehensive science communication training and hands-on science communication practice during a semester-long experience, primarily based at our research facility in the heart of Portland’s working waterfront.

Program Content

The internship program will involve two pillars of learning: 1) building foundational science communication skills, and 2) translating, promoting, and contributing to research projects in the marine and digital sciences.

We encourage students to apply research topics and experiences directly in their communications work.

Interns will undergo comprehensive training in various crucial areas of science communication. They will have an opportunity for their work products to be featured across a variety of GMRI channels, including web, social, print, and earned media. Training sessions and practical applications will cover a variety of topics, such as:

• Science writing & translating complex topics
• Storytelling in the digital age
• Photography
• Videography
• Audience identification and development
• Media relations
• Omnichannel content distribution
• Digital marketing
• Social media