Researchers are increasingly called upon to communicate with the public, but what kind of expertise do they need to do this effectively? In addition to public engagement, what kind of expertise is needed to communicate with researchers in other disciplines, grant funders, practitioners and journalists?

The VCU Research Communication Interest Group, newly formed in the VCU Libraries and now expanding to the entire VCU community, seeks to build a community of practice around research communication at VCU. This group is open to all members of the VCU community interested in any aspect of research communication.

The group is interested in how to communicate about research to a wide array of audiences. And, it is interested in various communication methods including graphics, data visualization, audio, video, journalism, posters, speeches, multimedia, social media and blogging.

To begin building this community of practice, all members of the VCU community are invited to join the VCU Research Communication Interest Group meetups this month. At these meetups, researchers will share and discuss ideas for resources, support and educational events that can advance research communication at VCU. 

• Tuesday, September 18, 9-10 a.m. at Tompkins-McCaw Library for the Health Sciences, 509 N. 12th St., First Floor Conference Room.
• Wednesday, September 19, 9-10 a.m. at James Branch Cabell Library, 901 Park Ave., Room 250.

Can’t make it to either of these meetups? Share your ideas and thoughts on a feedback form where you can also sign up to receive email updates from the group.