Communicating with Purpose:
How an INFORM Workshop Helped Me Find My Voice
“From hesitant researcher to confident storyteller
—lessons in connection, clarity, and confidence”
Raja Buatig, PhD Graduate (University of Reading) & Early Career Researcher
May 2025 marked a turning point in my development as a researcher when I attended the INFORM Early Career Researcher Communication Skills Workshop at the University of Reading’s Henley Business School. Held over two immersive days (20th & 21st), the workshop promised to build confidence, enhance communication strategies, and equip researchers with the tools to engage effectively with a wide range of audiences. For a student who has spent a couple of years in the lab, this workshop was a much-needed skills refresher, a chance to step back, reflect, and refocus on how we communicate our work beyond the bench. Reflecting on the experience now, I can confidently say that these learning outcomes were not only met but exceeded.
A Personal and Professional Recalibration
From the outset, the environment fostered openness and reflection. The venue, nestled along the River Thames at Greenlands Campus, offered the perfect blend of tranquillity and inspiration. The workshop began with a heartfelt career story from Professor Glenn Gibson, a pioneer in microbiome science. His reflections on academic setbacks, career pivots, and the enduring value of curiosity were particularly grounding. His talk was not only insightful but also engaging, fun, and genuinely memorable, striking a perfect balance between humour and honesty. As someone early in their career, it was incredibly affirming to hear such an accomplished researcher speak so openly about the ups and downs of academic life.
Building Confidence Through Community
One of the major themes throughout the workshop was tackling imposter syndrome—something many early career researchers grapple with in silence. The session led by Gemma Ward was powerful in its vulnerability. I had never encountered anyone who so truly exposed the reality of impostor syndrome, what it means, how it manifests, and most importantly, how to manage it. Her session was eye-opening and validating, creating a safe space to explore something so many of us silently experience. Through guided discussions and individual reflection, we explored the roots of our self-doubt and developed strategies to challenge and reframe these narratives. I left with a practical action plan tailored to my own academic and personal growth, and perhaps more importantly, the comforting realisation that I was not alone in feeling this way.
Practical Tools for Real Impact
One of the most impactful sessions was delivered by Ed Powell on presentation skills. His emphasis on audience awareness, tailoring content for clarity, engagement, and accessibility resonated deeply. Whether communicating with policymakers, industry stakeholders, or the public, I now feel more equipped to adapt my message without compromising its scientific integrity.
Evening Moments: Fun, Friendship, and Reflection
The first day concluded with a relaxing paddle along the Thames River, which was an enjoyable way to unwind. Gemma Walton joined us for the session and took some lovely pictures. Afterwards, we enjoyed a calm, cosy dinner that created the perfect atmosphere for making new friends and having meaningful conversations.
Beyond Academia: Connecting With Broader Stakeholders
On Day 2, the session led by Donna Walton, Simon Cutler, and Sonalika Jain was an eye-opener on how academia can, and should, communicate with industry and business. As someone with a strong interest in translational research, it was invaluable to hear directly from professionals working at the interface of innovation and regulation. Their insights into developing communication plans and aligning research with stakeholder needs will undoubtedly influence how I present my work in the future.
The Art of Storytelling
The final session of the workshop, led by Dr. Anna Ploszajski, felt like a true treasure, an illuminating and inspiring way to wrap up the experience. Having completed the online foundations course in advance, I appreciated the way she seamlessly built upon those concepts during the live session. She provided us with a handbook, a clear plan of instructions that can be used to tell any story, which will undoubtedly be valuable throughout our future careers, regardless of domain. We practised crafting our career stories, combining structure, stakes, personal voice, and body language to create meaningful narratives. Presenting my story to the group and receiving feedback felt like a moment of truth, an honest reflection that helped me sharpen both my message and my confidence in delivering it.
Behind the Scenes of a Super Smooth Workshop!
And truly, stepping into the workshop, I immediately felt at ease, and that’s largely thanks to Gemma Walton and Fiona Lee. Their impeccable organisation and warm welcome truly set the tone, making the whole experience incredibly smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
My Takeaway: Communication is Leadership
If I had to distil my biggest takeaway from the workshop, it would be this:
Effective communication is not a “soft skill” – it is a core leadership competency. Whether I’m presenting at a conference,
applying for funding or sharing my work with the public, the ability to communicate confidently and with purpose is essential. Thanks to this workshop, I now feel far more prepared to step into those moments with authenticity and clarity.
Looking Forward
I left the INFORM ECR Communication Skills Workshop with a renewed sense of purpose and a richer toolkit for the road ahead. I plan to implement many of the skills I’ve acquired, from preparing more audience-specific presentations to building a more strategic communications plan for my research outputs, to embracing storytelling in both academic and informal settings.
To anyone considering this workshop in the future: say yes. Bring your curiosity, your impostor syndrome, your questions, and your passion. You’ll leave not only with skills and tools but with people who genuinely want to see you succeed.
