FameLab USA: Improving Science Communication Skills for Early Career Scientists.

Area of Science:

• Science Communication
• Science Education
• Astrobiology Outreach

Background:

• FameLab International, a science communication competition, began in the UK in 2005.
• FameLab USA was implemented by NASA's Astrobiology Program from 2012 to 2016.
• The program focused on training early career scientists in effective communication techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of FameLab USA training on participants' science communication skills.
• To assess changes in participants' confidence and self-identity as science communicators.
• To understand how the program influenced participants' engagement in science communication activities.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of participant skill development.
• Assessment of audience engagement and presentation structure.
• Self-reported changes in confidence, self-identity, and communication behavior.

Main Results:

• Documented significant skill gains, particularly in audience connection and presentation organization.
• Participants reported increased confidence and adopted a "science communicator" identity.
• The program enhanced participants' willingness to seek communication opportunities and overcome institutional barriers.

Conclusions:

• FameLab USA training effectively improved science communication skills and attitudes.
• Participants valued science communication more and felt more competent, leading to increased engagement.
• The program empowered early career scientists to become confident and effective science communicators.