IMPRS-gBGC workshop Scientific Writing 2012
Time & place
The training is conducted over 2 full days.
October, 25-26, 2012
MPI for Biogeochemistry, seminar room B0.002
The instructors
Dr. Brian Cusack and Dr. Rick Scavetta from Science Craft
The class
Description
(prepared by science craft)
This two-day workshop enables life scientists to communicate their research clearly and effectively. Through numerous writing examples and relevant exercises as well as class discussions, participants learn how to describe their work in a flowing narrative with a clear “take home message”. The interactive nature of the workshop means participants benefit not only from the experience of both instructors but also from the ideas of other participants. Each participant receives a copy of our reference and exercise books. Native German- speaking participants will also receive a special German module booklet. Additionally, writing samples from each participant are edited by the class instructors. The workshop teaches participants not only to tell the story of their research but also to direct their research using the writing process.
Participants Learn How To:
- Apply five key principles of scientific writing.
- Write for their readers.
- Construct a memorable “take-home message”.
- Connect all parts of their paper in a flowing narrative.
- Overcome writers’ block.
- Structure their paper for increased impact.
- Use the writing process to inform their own research.
- Understand the role of “story telling” in scientific writing.
Preparation
Before the workshop, participants are asked to provide a short sample of their own writing. This should be an Abstract and Title either from a manuscript currently in preparation or describing participants’ research so far. Early stage PhD students may choose to submit an outline of their proposed project. The writing sample should be a paragraph of 150 - 250 words with a one-sentence title. The writing sample will be edited by the course instructors and used as material for some of the practical writing exercises.
Contact
For further details on the content of the course, the instructors can be contacted directly:
- Dr. Brian Cusack, brian.cusack@science-craft.com
- Dr. Rick Scavetta, rick.scavetta@science-craft.com
For logistic matters (including registration issues), please contact the IMPRS office.