This week-long event invites all ASCB members to showcase their scientific endeavors and engage with the public. The #CellSpeak initiative is designed to foster public engagement, helping bridge the gap between scientists and non-scientists while highlighting the impact of cell science on society.
Why #CellSpeak? Public engagement is vital for scientists as it informs communities about current scientific trends and opens avenues for meaningful dialogue on science’s role in everyday life. In alignment with ASCB’s Strategic Priority 4—Educate and Advocate for the Future of Cell Science—this initiative provides resources and a dedicated time for members to connect with the public. (Read our article in the August 2024 Newsletter)
How to Participate
Get involved by sharing your public engagement activities during this week! Here’s how:
- Post your activities on social media using the hashtag #CellSpeak and tag @ASCBiology.
- Incorporate additional hashtags like #SciComm, #CitizenScience, #PublicEngagement, #ScienceOutreach, and #ScienceTalk.
- Participate in our online daily poll questions and share your insights to spark discussion and engage your community!
Events Happening for #CellSpeak
- Ongoing: Online Image Contest
- Ongoing: Online Elevator Pitch Contest
- Tuesday, October 22, 2024 1-2pm: Webinar- Panel Discussion: Diversifying your CellSpeak
- Thursday, October 24, 2024, 9-5pm: Public Policy Missouri Virtual Day on the Hill
Social Media Highlights
Throughout the week, expect engaging posts from various ASCB committees, including EdComm, COMPASS, WICB, Membership, and SCOPE.
Need ideas for Public Engagement Activities?
- Host a science café or public talk
- Organize a lab tour/open house for local schools
- Engage in youth outreach at a library
- Create a video of your elevator speech
- Share images of your work and explain in layman’s terms
- Highlight past public engagement activities
- Lead or participate in a citizen science project
- Write an Op-Ed for your local newspaper
Partner Activities
- Sunday, October 20 – ASCB’s Science Communication, Outreach, and Public Engagement (SCOPE) Committee
- Monday, October 21 – ASCB’s Committee for Postdocs and Students (COMPASS)
- Tuesday, October 22 – ASCB’s Women in Cell Biology (WICB) Committee
- Wednesday, October 23 – ASCB’s LGBTQ+ Committee
- Thursday, October 24 – ASCB’ Public Policy Committee Missouri Virtual Hill Day
- Friday, October 25 – ASCB’s Education Committee
Resources for Public Engagement
Explore the ASCB Communication Toolkits for additional resources to enhance your public engagement efforts.
Join us in making science accessible and relatable! Let’s engage our communities and advocate for the future of cell science together.
About the Author:
This post was collaboratively written by several ASCB staff members.
