“If we drop the pretence of science communication as an intellectually armoured endeavour carried out by elites and instead commit to relationship building, we can make science communication more effective.”
Faith Kearns
STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics. STEAM takes a holistic approach, encouraging the next generation of innovators and researchers to tackle real-world problems creatively while considering their impact on humanity.
A science communicator is a bridge between the scientist and the rest of the world. It's one of the best jobs going in the STEAM field because communicators get to talk to the people making cutting-edge discoveries in all fields of science and translate that for the rest of the community. Science communication is important because it can help people understand scientific concepts in a way that is clear and accessible, which helps build people’s trust in science.
Educator: Guaranteed employment in primary and secondary schools in Malta and Gozo as a science/biology/physics/chemistry/mathematics teacher. The work involves nurturing students' potential and passion for the subject to encourage them to take STEAM careers and use science in their everyday lives for the rest of their lives.
Graphic Design & Scientific Illustration: International freelance work, will need a strong portfolio and an additional degree. The work involves developing scientific illustrations, infographics, posters, animations, videos, and other related items for companies, institutions, and projects. This career track requires a strong portfolio and some entrepreneurial skills.
Science Communicator: Possible employment in Esplora Interactive Science Centre or through EU-funded projects at the University of Malta and others. A master's in science communication would help support this career track. The work involves developing and running creative activities and formats to involve different groups of people within STEAM and research. This career is very rewarding for those who regularly want to talk to other people and manage events.
Researcher and Academic: STEAM education and science communication scholarly work and research is also possible through this career track. The person will need to get a PhD in Science Communication / STEAM Education or a related field. This work involves research to understand the public perception of science, research, scientists and researchers, it also involves developing creative activities and studying them to understand their impact.