Heather Young
OIST
Heather Young is purpose-driven communications leaders with almost 20 years of experience in the field. Her expertise spans public relations, media relations, marketing, public affairs, corporate social responsibility, and events.
At OIST, the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, she serves as a vice president where she and her teams work to advance the visibility of the institute’s research and education.
Prior to OIST, Heather held leadership positions at an innovation-focused NGO, a health and safety agency, and the Special Olympics.
Sessions
AI and Science Communication
This panel explores the evolving role of AI in science communication, from shaping This panel explores the evolving role of AI in science communication, from shaping press release policies to transforming communication practices with generative press release policies to transforming communication practices with generative AI. The panelists will also discuss the critical challenges posed by AI-driven AI. The panelists will also discuss the critical challenges posed by AI-driven misinformation and deepfakes.
Many Worlds of Science Communicators by Communication and Public Relations Division (CPR), OIST
The importance of science communicators has long been recognized, as science is done for the benefit of society and must be developed with the understanding and support of society. The reason why communicators are necessary is that professional communicators can convey information more effectively and efficiently than scientists themselves can communicate to the general public by mediating between the two.
On the other hand, understanding of the work is not as widespread, and it can be said that professionals themselves do not have a complete picture of what kind of people do what kind of work and what kind of organisations they can develop their careers in.
The participants (registrants) for this forum include not only science communication practitioners, but also a number of doctoral students and early career scientists. This panel discussion demonstrates the possibilities for these people to continue to be involved in science communication, and to create an atmosphere in which everyone can work together to improve the status of science communicators. In the discussion, the speakers share their own career paths, daily tasks (past and current), challenges, future goals, and advice for those passionate about science communication.
Expected outcomes:
- Participants will understand the many possibilities of science communication in different environments and gain perspective on their own future careers.
- Participants will confirm the importance of science communicators and work together to enforce SciCom industry.
JSF organizers and Heather Young
Ice breaker
In this half-hour session, we will come together after almost two years of COVID, reset our focus and intentions, get to know a few new friends, and plan for a great Forum together. You will meet Heather Young, the new Vice President of Communications and Public Relations at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), who took on a new job in a new country in the middle of a worldwide pandemic. She will talk about her decision, her adventure, and what she’s learned so far. Plus, Heather will facilitate an interactive and facilitated ice breaker activity (don’t worry, it will be painless). Join us to launch the Forum and make new friends!