DESCOM: Science Communication Training at Uni.lu

We are still waiting to discover if projects like Doctoral Education in Science Communication (DESCOM) run in other universities around the world…as far as we know, it only exists at Uni.lu! So what exactly do they do at DESCOM? 

We spoke to Project Manager Nicole Paschek to find out more. “DESCOM’s goal is to support interactions between academia and the public by training researchers in science communication,” shares Nicole. “We’re mainly organising trainings for doctoral candidates, but lately we’re also expanding to PostDocs.”

Nicole is the one organising all the trainings and outreach activities that DESCOM offers and supports. “I bring together the right people,” she explains. “Making those connections and seeing events and ideas flourish is what I like most about my job at the moment.” DESCOM is an educational project in science communication that aims at supporting interactions between academia and the public by training young scientist in science communication. This transferable skill is becoming ever more important, not only for the public but also for the doctoral candidate’s own visibility and thus employability.

Project Manager of DESCOM Nicole Paschek

DESCOM produced several comics about science and research in Luxembourg. “Our science comic series LUX:plorations is the activity I’m most proud of,” admits Nicole. “With each volume we have new challenges to overcome. But in a team effort we always managed (so far). Also: Science comics are an awesome medium. In my job I get to do a whole science comic series. How cool is that?!“

As part of the GradPack, DESCOM extends its offer not only to current students but also to alumni. ”We can send printed copies of LUX:plorations to all interested alumni,” says Nicole. “Just send us a message mentioning you’re an alumni. If you prefer a notification once the newest comic edition is online, you can also subscribe to LUX:plorations. Furthermore, some of your DESCOM science communication internships are also open to recently graduated doctoral candidates.”

Alumna Catherine Sedrani taking part in DESCOM activities while still a student

Another alumna Sonia Sabate Soler agrees: "DESCOM has played an important role in shaping my experience in science communication. During my PhD at the University of Luxembourg, I participated in the first edition of the Science Comics 'LUX:plorations' and attended DESCOM’s Science Communication course. This course, combined with a partnership between the university and various Luxembourgish institutions, led me to an internship at the Luxembourg Science Center in Differdange—an opportunity that later evolved into a freelance position. Throughout my journey, DESCOM and its project officer, Nicole Paschek, have consistently encouraged me to engage in science communication initiatives. Their dedication to promoting science communication in Luxembourg is inspiring. Thanks to these experiences, I have gained knowledge and experience in the field, which I now apply in my current job."

If there are leftover places in DESCOM courses, they can sometimes accommodate exceptions and host alumni too so do check out their offer and get your copy of LUX:plorations now!

Alumna Catherine Sedrani took part in DESCOM activities while still a student: “Science communication is a vital part of being a scientist - it's not just about doing the research, but sharing it effectively. For me, DESCOM was the perfect starting point. Besides lectures, I also gained hands-on experience through developing and giving workshops, being part of producing a science comic, and it allowed me to connect with a community of like-minded people. Now, working as a science communicator, I’m truly grateful for the skills and confidence I gained. Whether you see yourself in science communication full-time or just want to strengthen this essential skill, I highly recommend taking the opportunity and joining DESCOM.”

Alumna Sonia Sabate