Embedding Science Communication Training in a UM1 Hub to Enhance Research Impact

The Art of Science Communication (ASC) course was developed in 2015 by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) to provide scientists with foundational training in communicating their work to non-expert audiences.1 Recognizing the growing need for public engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration, ASC equips participants with tools to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible language. In In 2022, the course was revised to reflect the evolving communication landscape, incorporating new strategies and approaches to better support scientists across career stages. A survey of more than 150 former course participants found that ASC provides significant professional development benefits, including increased confidence in science communication across all career stages. In addition to its online format, ASBMB supports blended versions of the ASC course—bringing it directly to institutions for customized implementation. These models combine online content with in-person facilitation and have been used to:• Integrate ASC into existing curricula• Support faculty and staff development• Build institutional capacity for public engagement In 2024, NUCATS Implemented the ASC course as an initiative to enhance professional development opportunities and to strengthen researchers’ ability to communicate their work to broad audiences.