Modern science outreach: A guide for scientists

Science communication offers immense value for fostering public trust and enhancing the quality of our modern information ecosystem. However, it remains under-prioritized and is rarely taught in the scientific enterprise. Addressing this gap thus represents an enormous opportunity for the field of science, and it starts with upskilling researchers in public engagement efforts. To that end, this paper outlines six actionable practices to help scientists effectively reach and engage broad audiences, with a focus on leveraging modern media and emerging dissemination channels. Notably, these practices bridge theory and practice: they are both theoretically backed and have been successfully implemented already by the authors. We encourage scientists at all levels and across disciplines to implement these strategies to engage broad audiences and contribute positively to public discourse.