What can research communication contribute?
Research communication can help you reach people within and outside academia. These may include other researchers, decision-makers, teachers, doctors, patient groups, journalists, companies or others who may benefit from your research.
By communicating your research, you can:
- increase the visibility of you, your research and your research field and reach more people both within and outside academia;
- establish new contacts and opportunities for collaboration;
- reach people and organisations that can make use of your research results;
- contribute to your academic merits and be valuable in certain funding contexts;
- contribute research-based knowledge to public debate; and
- meet funders’ requirements to communicate research results to a wider audience.
When research from Umeå University is made more visible, this can contribute to public trust in research and to the image of the University.
Start with your purpose and target audience
Before choosing a channel or format, you need to consider what you want to achieve and who you want to reach.
For example, do you want to:
- communicate a new research result;
- find participants for a study;
- establish contact with other researchers or potential collaboration partners;
- reach a particular professional group;
- contribute knowledge to a current issue in society; or
- present a research project, research group or research environment?
Different target audiences need different information. Once your purpose and target audience are clear, it becomes easier to decide what to communicate, when to communicate it and which channels to use.
Read about how to plan your communication
Find ways to reach your audience
Research communication can take place in many different contexts and formats. What is suitable depends on what you want to communicate and who you want to reach.
For example, you can:
- take part in a public engagement event;
- contact the media or contribute your expertise;
- write an opinion piece;
- present your research at a conference, use a poster or other information material; or
- take part in networks and exchanges in Sweden or internationally.
You can get support
As a researcher, you are responsible for communicating your research, but you do not have to do everything yourself. A communications officer at your department or faculty can help you assess what may be relevant to communicate and how you can reach the right target audience. It is a good idea to get in touch early, particularly if the communication needs to be coordinated or planned for a specific occasion.
Read about communication channels and media contacts
Learn more about communication and writing
Would you like to develop your ability to communicate or write about research? Umeå University offers guidance, writing support and training.
Communications Guide
On the Aktum staff website, you can find support on communication planning, images and video, graphic design, writing in Swedish and English, as well as advice on purchasing language or communication services.
Go to the Communications Guide on Aktum (UMU ID required)
Internal courses and training
In Eduportal, you can find current internal courses and training. Among other things, you can search for training in communication, language and writing.
Go to Eduportal (UMU ID required)
Academic writing
Get tips and strategies for developing your academic writing through Umeå University Library. There are useful tips, strategies and links avaibale.
