Make An Appointment

The Communication Fellows are trained to provide constructive feedback and peer coaching, teaching clients skills and ideas that will help them improve their written, visual, and oral research communication. Ultimately, the Comm Lab hopes to empower scientists to successfully convey the impact of their work through clear scientific communication.

Fellows can help, guide, and advise you on a range of projects and can do so regardless of where you are in the process – whether you are brainstorming, outlining, drafting, or revising. Some examples of projects that you can seek their support for (among others):

  • Abstracts and manuscripts
  • Scientific talks/Chalk talks
  • Poster presentations
  • Grant/Fellowship applications

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What can I expect from a “typical” Comm Lab appointment?
    Appointments will generally start off with a brief conversation around what you’re looking for from the 30 minute to 1 hour session, followed by a few minutes of time for you to pull out key points in the document while the Fellow reads your material. The majority of the session will be spent on coaching you through the process of communicating your work clearly and meaningfully. Note that the goal of these sessions is to help your writing, speaking, and design skills, not copy-editing.
  • What should I bring to my appointment?
    If you have a draft, check with your Comm Lab Fellow about whether you should bring printed copies or send them a digital version. If you are meeting about a presentation or talk, feel free to bring the printed slide deck or even a short video of yourself presenting the talk. Note that Fellows are not expected to review your material before the meeting.
  • Where will meetings be held?
    Our standard appointment location is the Comm Lab Office, CILSE 405A. Appointments can also be held in any public working or meeting space around BU that’s convenient for both you and the Fellow.
  • Who should I make an appointment with?
    Although many Fellows have specialties (graphic design, journal articles), all Fellows are trained in peer coaching across a variety of communication topics. Any of our Fellows will be able to help you communicate more clearly through your written text, presentation, or figures.