Workshop: AI Tools for Biodiversity Communication
Data:
Luogo:
WSL Birmensdorf, Hörsaal
Organizzato da:
Biodiversity Center, WSL
Relatore/relatrice:
Mirko Bischofberger, Science Studios GmbH
Moderatore/moderatrice:
Nadia Castro, WSL
Lingua:
English
Tipo di evento:
Corsi
Pubblico principale:
Anyone interested in the topics
The WSL Biodiversity Center is pleased to announce a two half-day workshop on using AI to improve biodiversity communication, featuring hands-on exercises and practical insights for WSL staff members. The workshop will be held on 23 and 29 October.
Biodiversity communication is urgent amid the global nature crisis. In Switzerland, most of the population believes that scientists should inform the public about their work (WissensCHaftsbarometer 2022), and many researchers are eager to engage in science communication. However, competing demands, such as research, teaching, and administrative responsibilities, often limit the time available for outreach activities, making them a lower priority.
Generative AI (GenAI) technologies offer new possibilities to address this challenge. These tools can help to quickly transform scientific outputs, such as peer-reviewed articles or technical reports, into accessible formats, including plain-language summaries, social media posts, infographics, or short videos. By reducing the time and effort required, AI tools may help lower the barriers for researchers to communicate with broader audiences.
About this workshop ¶
The workshop will introduce general storytelling principles and then focus on the application of AI in science communication, with a special emphasis on biodiversity. Participants will explore how AI can enhance their writing and communication skills while also learning to avoid generating texts that sound artificial. The session will provide hands-on experience with the latest AI tools and techniques, including effective prompting strategies and an overview of the leading providers. Additionally, the workshop will explore the limitations and risks associated with AI usage, such as data protection concerns and energy costs.
No prior experience is necessary, as the session will cover the fundamentals of science communication.
About the speaker ¶
Dr. Mirko Bischofberger is an expert in science communication with more than 20 years of experience. He's a lecturer at EPFL, ETH Zurich, University of Basel and University of Zurich.
Mirko studied molecular biology and specialised in computational biology during his PhD. After working for the Neue Zürcher Zeitung and the Swiss Parliament, he joined the SNSF and EPFL. He has won numerous communication grants and awards and works for several funding agencies such as the ERC, the SNSF and the FWF.
Program ¶
*Updated schedule
- Thursday, 23 October | 12:30 – 16:00 (previously 13:00 – 17:00) | Englersaal
- Wednesday, 29 October | 12:30 – 17:00 (previously 13:00 – 17:00) | EP D1
Registration ¶
This course is open to WSL staff working on biodiversity-related topics who are interested in science communication. Spaces are limited, so please register only if you can attend both days.
Please register here (Intranet - only WSL staff)
Contact ¶
How to get here ¶
Zürcherstrasse 111, 8903 Birmensdorf
By public transport ¶
Bus stop Birmensdorf ZH, Sternen/WSL
Accessible by bus lines 220 and 350 via Wiedikon/Triemli or via Birmensdorf station with S-Bahn lines 5 and 14.
By car ¶
See map on map.search.ch or Google Maps
You'll find guest parking spaces (for a fee) behind the main building after passing the main entrance.