Scientists have a responsibility to shout about their research – not just in the echo chambers of science conferences, but to wider society. Misconceptions among the general public can quickly become widespread, and even affect government policy.
At Queen Mary, we have a long-standing commitment to public engagement. When you study Medical Genetics with us, you’ll graduate with a solid scientific grounding and the skills to pursue a career in research and science communication if you choose to.
One of our core second-year modules is Research Methods and Communication. You’ll learn how to design experiments, how to analyse and present the data obtained and how to communicate those results to others. Lectures and workshops focus on the principles of experimental design and statistical analysis, and discussion of how to interpret and present data. In tutorials, you’ll undertake writing exercises designed to teach you how to structure an argument and communicate ideas effectively.
You’ll also have the option to study the third-year module Engaging the Public in Science, in which you’ll explore the science-public interface, discuss what we mean by ‘public’, learn what constitutes jargon and what research impact is (and how to evaluate it).
Also in your final year, you’ll have the chance to design your own research project, supervised by our experts. Through your project, you’ll investigate an open research question on your chosen aspect of Medical Genetics. You’ll report the background, results and conclusions of the study in an oral presentation and a 10,000-word thesis, allowing you to develop the necessary skills to become a researcher in your own right.