Lucky 13! Science communication networks around the world

Are you thinking of getting involved in science communication or are you a science communicator looking to expand your skills and reach? Then joining a network for science communicators is a great way to take that leap forward.
 
Interest and involvement in science communication has grown exponentially in recent years. Science communicators work in a huge range of settings, delivering diverse and engaging activities around the world. To keep on top of their game, science communicators often join networks to learn from each other, as well as share and develop new approaches to the field. There are numerous science communication networks in existence, many within academic settings. Here, we provide a handy list (in alphabetical order) of some of the largest networks around the world, outside of academic institutions, that support and promote science communication. Why not get involved?
 
1. Africa Science Communication Network
Africa Science Communication Network is Africa’s next generation global research and innovation integrated knowledge management network. A professional environment where scholars, investigators, change managers, science communicators, research administrators, development officers and policymakers can access donor-funded programmes and expertise to collaborate and expand their networks – all in one hub. It offers a subscription-based suite of productivity tools and is available to professionals interested in science research, technology and innovation around the world with an exclusive focus on Africa.
 
2. ASPAC Asia Pacific Network of Science & Technology Centres
The Asia Pacific Network of Science & Technology Centres (ASPAC) is an association of science centres, museums and related organisations, with a regional focus on the Asia Pacific region. 
 
3. Australian Science Communicators
Australian Science Communicators is the national forum for science communicators and science journalists. It is a national network of people working in science and technology communication, including science journalists and writers, public information officers for academic and research organisations, scientists, museum professionals, science educators, science film-makers, and many other diverse professions united by the common theme of making science accessible.
 
4. BIG STEM Communicators Network (UK)
BIG is a not-for-profit organisation for all people involved in informal science communication activities and hands-on education projects in the UK. It runs regular events and training courses on issues relevant to science communication and informal science and maths education. It also provides opportunities for networking and for sharing skills, knowledge and best-practices.
 
5. European Science Communication Institute
ESCI is a not-for-profit organisation that empowers scientists, helping them communicate and connect with the public to bridge the gap between science and society. ESCI strives to foster greater understanding and raise support for scientific endeavours across the board.
 
6. Indian Science Communication Society 
The Indian Science Communication Society’s purpose is to position science communication as an area of serious scholarly endeavour to realise the goals of science and technology Communication and to popularise science and scientific temper among the Indian masses. 
 
7. Japanese Association for Science Communication 
The Japanese Association of Science Communication (JASC) is an association which functions as a platform for all people related to science communications. JASC promotes science communication to enhance science literacy of the whole society, and contributes to the realisation of a society where the public can proactively be involved in issues surrounding science and technology.
 
8. National Association of Science Writers (USA)  
The National Association of Science was established to foster the dissemination of accurate information regarding science through all media normally devoted to informing the public. Its officers have included both freelancers and employees of most of the major newspapers, wire services, magazines, and broadcast outlets in the country. Above all, NASW fights for the free flow of science news.
 
9. PCST Network Public Communication of Science and Technology (international) 
The global network for science communication. The PCST Network seeks to promote new ideas, methods, intellectual and practical questions, and perspectives on the communication of science and technology.
 
10. RedPOP 
The network for science communication in Latin America and the Caribbean.
 
11. Science Communication Network (USA) 
Science Communication Network (SCN) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting environmental health scientists in their efforts to contribute to public dialogue about their work through the media. It provides media training specific to communicating environmental health research, and reaches out to science, health and other interested journalists to inform them regarding important new science.
 
12. Science Communicators Association of New Zealand 
The Science Communicators Association of New Zealand provides a community for science communicators to discuss and debate their craft with others, and hosts science communication events throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
 
13. Science Writers and Communicators of Canada 
Science Writers and Communicators of Canada is a national association that welcomes media professionals, communications officers in science and technology-related institutions, technical writers and educators – all of whom are involved in communicating science and technology to non-specialist audiences. It fosters quality science communication that links science and technology communicators from coast-to-coast. In the process, members volunteer their time toward a series of programs committed to increasing public awareness of, and engagement with, Canadian science and technology – particularly among youth.

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