Column Block 1-3

Media training for engaging with journalists

Build confidence and skills to become a key media player/communicator. This session will cover media work and will include practical sessions and interview practice.

In this session you will learn about: 

  • How the media operates 
  • Practical tips for talking to the media and journalist interviews 
  • Communicating your key messages 
  • Handling sensitive questions 
  • Keeping interviews on track (e.g., talk about my research, not race) 

Trainer(s): Elizabeth Bananuka is the founder of BME PR Pros & Blueprinted. 

The power of podcasts

Whether you are interested in appearing on podcasts or have had an idea for starting one yourself, they are an excellent way to reach a dedicated audience and demonstrate your expertise. 

In this session you will learn: 

  • The benefits of appearing on and creating podcasts 
  • How podcasts are put together 
  • Key considerations when starting a podcast 
  • Interview techniques 

Trainer(s): Imriel Morgan is the founder and CEO of Content is Queen and the host of the award-winning Wanna Be Podcast. 

Social Media and Video

Learn how to get the most out of social media to share your research: from which platforms to choose and cutting through the noise to positioning yourself as an expert and staying safe online. 

In this session you will learn about: 

  • What is social media? 
  • The platforms and what they are for 
  • Managing the information overload 
  • Trolls and other undesirables 
  • How to create compelling video content with just your smartphone

Trainer(s): social media and video experts

Col 4-6

Public Engagement

Discover the power of exchanging ideas, insights and skills with wider public audiences. From engaging families at science festivals to having conversations about your research at the local cafe.

In this session you will learn: 

  • What public engagement is and its benefits
  • Key principles for high-quality public engagement
  • How to plan an engagement project  
  • Practical tips for presenting and talking about your research

Trainer(s): Charlotte Coales and Kat Nilsson

Powerful Words

Gain skills in crafting powerful words to carry your messages to a wide range of audiences. Learn how to translate your science into news articles, blog posts and editorials/opinion pieces.   

In this session you will learn:  

How to write good copy   

The different types of writing formats   

What journalists and editors look for in commentaries and opinion pieces   

You will also be set practical tasks and get feedback from the trainer.  

Trainer(s): An Emmy award winning journalist who has worked with CNN and Thomas Reuters 

Public affairs and policy

Imperial's Policy Forum training session aims to demystify government and Parliament by explaining how to engage successfully with policymakers. 

During the session, you will: 

  • Gain an improved understanding of the governmental landscape and key players. 
  • Hear about the policymaking process. 
  • Learn practical tips for engaging with Parliament and the Civil Service. 

Trainer(s): The Imperial Policy Forum team 

Networking and celebration event: After the final session, we host a drinks reception celebrating participants' completion of the Imperial As One Media Academy. Previous participants, trainers, and other communications professionals will be in attendance making it a fantastic opportunity to network and create contacts to help in your future endeavours beyond the programme.

Cancellations: Those enrolling onto the Media Academy are expected to attend all the sessions of the programme and complete all evaluation surveys.