A PhD in science communication is probably interesting and useful, but I
don't think I know anyone working in sci com (as opposed to a sci com
academic) who has one, and have never seen a job advert which requires one.
A PhD in a science is probably not much use day-to-day in most sci com
jobs, because 99% of the time you won't be communicating anything
relevant to your PhD. Broad knowledge is much more useful than deep
knowledge, and I think in most cases a relevant undergrad degree is
better at delivering that.
A background in academic research is actively harmful a lot of the time
- there's nothing like a few extra years in academia to kill your
writing style and to narrow your view of what the relevant context of
what you're communicating is. If you've seen press releases full of
passive constructions and obscure caveats up in the lede, you'll know
what I'm talking about.
However, sci com jobs are often in the gift of scientists, and a PhD
would certainly impress or reassure many an interview committee.
Full disclosure - I don't have a PhD and I came to science communication
from studying history and philosophy of science, so a) my career path is
a bit unusual and b) I'm probably biased :)
Cheers,
Oli
On 10/03/2012 10:12, Matt Templar wrote:
> Hello,
>
> It seems that these days, everyone has a bachelors degree. How important therefore do you feel having a PhD is in science communication? Does it open doors and create opportunities that otherwise wouldn't exist? I'd be really grateful to hear your responses. I suspect that these sorts of questions are on the minds of many others who, like myself, are at an early stage in their careers.
>
> The reason I ask is that, as a recent science graduate, I already know that I don't want to work in research long-term but rather see myself in science communication. However, when browsing various science communication roles, it seems to me that the most prestigious or senior roles (and sometimes most exciting) are occupied by Dr xyz. I only have a Bachelor's degree (a good one, in biology) - will this put me at a significant disadvantage vs. PhD-holders? In order not to exclude myself from the better roles, I would be prepared to apply for and complete a PhD. But is this really necessary? Perhaps I have an inaccurate picture of the sci-com sector?
>
> I suppose you might say the the answer depends on what area of science communication I see myself in? Unfortunately it's difficult for me to say exactly what I want to do at this stage. I do really enjoy communicating complex science to non-specialists (both through the written word and verbally) and teaching/advising, interacting with people. I could see myself working in the media/science charities/learned societies etc etc.
>
> It would be really great to have your thoughts, particularly from the more experienced/senior science communicators amongst you - in what circumstances would you employ someone who holds a PhD over someone who doesn't? What sci-com roles have an absolute requirement for a PhD?
>
> Thanks a lot,
> Matt
>
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