Not everyone is going to be equally good at this. That’s OK. Not all scientists are equally good at laboratory techniques, or advanced data analyses. Not everyone is equally good at (or interested in) formulating research questions or writing grants. There is a niche for all of us in science, and in my experience, the best scientists learn to play to their strengths. But in the same way that a PI can’t have a strong project without someone on the team who can analyze the data, I would argue that our science is not having the impact that it could when we don’t include community members, and faculty or staff with relevant expertise in communication, as part of our projects. Expanding the engagement of a broader audience in research has the potential to benefit all of us.
