There are only a few days left to sign up for Soapbox Science 2016, which is happening in various cities across the UK and Ireland this year. We’re looking for women in science from PhD students to Professors, and from entry-level researchers to entrepreneurs, who are passionate about science and want to spread the word.
Applying to join an event is easy to do. There’s a short form that’s quick and easy to complete, and you can fill it in online.
But why should you put your name down? We can give you 10 good reasons!
- Engage people who might not otherwise encounter science
Unlike the majority of other science events and festivals, where the audience have made a conscious decision to go and interact with science and scientists, Soapbox Science really does take science to the streets. Or the park. Or the beach! The people you’ll talk to may not have intended to engage with science, but once they encounter our speakers they’re certainly drawn in. Our evaluation shows that over 80% found it enjoyable and 100% would come again!
- Inspire the next generation
Families and school children make up a large percentage of the Soapbox Science audience, and we want to show them that science is fascinating, exciting and fun. Who better to inspire the next generation of scientists than women in science who are passionate about what they do, and can show the breadth of subjects, disciplines and applications there are out there!
- Break down stereotypes, become a role model
Science is still a male-dominated field, and although the visibility of women in science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine is growing, it’s still low. The public perception of scientists is still that of the male researcher, so by having an all-female group of speakers at Soapbox Science, we are beginning to challenge and change that view. This has important implications for encouraging more girls to take up STEM subjects, so by taking part in Soapbox Science you are challenging stereotypes and acting as a role model for future women in STEM.
- Join the Soapbox Science Alumni
With speakers like Athene Donald, as a Soapbox Science Alumni you’ll be in illustrious company! We aim to get a spread of career levels speaking across all our events, from PhD students to Professors, so you’ll also have the chance to talk to other women in science, share thoughts and opinions, and seek advice.
- Science Communication Training
The Soapbox Science Team organise a series of training events across the UK that speakers are invited to join. Benefit from the knowledge of our guest speakers who will help you improve your communication skills this year. Previous guests have included the Infinite Monkey Cage host Robin Ince and explorer and wildlife presenter Dr George McGavin. We also have a trained science communicator on the team who can help answer your questions and address your concerns.
- Support in developing your event
From science communication training to deciding what props to use, the Soapbox Science team will be there to support you. There’s funding available to help cover reasonable prop production costs, and there’ll be a team of Soapbox Science volunteers on hand on the day to support each speaker, recruit an engaged audience, and ensure you have an enjoyable experience.
- Increase the visibility of your work
With Soapbox Science, you’ll have the chance to share your research with hundreds of people at our events, but that’s not all. We showcase and profile each of our Soapbox Science speakers online in blog posts, interviews and videos, so your research will reach a significant audience.
- Experience something different
It may sound intimidating, but we guarantee that speaking at Soapbox Science is an experience you’ll never forget. All our previous speakers have really enjoyed the chance to talk with the general public in such an informal, unusual way, and they’ve often gone on to participate in more science communication events.
- Increase your professional reputation
Soapbox Science has received significant attention in the media, with articles and interviews featured online, in the printed press, broadcast media and within the scientific press. We’ve had blog posts by Soapbox Science speakers published in the mainstream national press, including the Guardian and the Independent. We work to highlight the profile and work of our speakers on the Soapbox Science website, and beyond.
- Boost your personal and professional development
Our Soapbox Science alumni have benefitted personally and professionally from their experience. They’ve told us of many opportunities that have come as a result of their involvement, including receiving recognition within their University or organisation, invitations to join Athena SWAN committees, opportunities to become Departmental Outreach Leaders, and more!
Have we convinced you? Sign up for one of our events this summer!