Communicating what research is and isn’t: 5 key webinar takeaways

What does it take to inspire trust in science and drive innovation forward? At a recent webinar hosted by Elsevier in partnership with Sense about Science, global experts including researchers, publishers, and policy leaders, united to tackle this question.

The discussion examined the challenges of media scrutiny, the demands of policy-making, and the crucial role of transparent communication. Participants highlighted why openly sharing both the strengths and limitations of research isn’t not just good practice, it’s also essential for building public confidence and fuelling scientific progress.

Watch the webinar

Here are five key takeways from the event:

1. Research communication requires both confidence and humility

Early career researchers are expected not only to conduct rigorous science but also to explain and defend their work in public, policy, and media conversations. As panelist Zainab Kidwai noted, communicating research is more than simplifying results or avoiding jargon—it’s about building context, relevance, and, most importantly, trust. Researchers must be transparent about what is known, what is not, and the uncertainties inherent in their work. Creating spaces for training and dialogue helps researchers develop these vital skills, bridging generational gaps and empowering them to communicate with both confidence and humility.

2. Understanding the distinction between science, technology, and innovation

Professor Rongping Mu emphasized the importance of distinguishing between science (the pursuit of understanding the natural world), technology (the application of scientific knowledge), and innovation (the commercialization and diffusion of technology). Policymakers and the public often conflate these concepts, but recognizing their differences is crucial for evaluating the value and impact of research. Importantly, all stages—from discovery to application—carry different types of uncertainty, and researchers must clearly communicate these nuances to inform better policy and societal decisions.

3. High-Quality research is systematic, transparent, and evidence-based

Deborah Logan, Publishing Director at Elsevier, outlined what constitutes publishable research: it must be systematic, methodical, evidence-based, original, and transparent. Peer review remains a cornerstone of research credibility, and upholding these standards, especially in the face of increasing pressure to publish and the rise of AI-generated content, ensures the integrity of the scientific record. Publishers like Elsevier are investing in tools and guidelines to detect and manage AI use, emphasizing that while language assistance is acceptable, the core research and analysis must remain the work of the researcher.

4. Building trust through community engagement and co-creation

Effective research communication goes beyond publishing in journals. The panel highlighted the importance of engaging communities and policymakers early in the research process. Co-designing interventions and asking open-ended questions foster mutual understanding and ensure that research addresses real-world needs. Trust is earned by being transparent about uncertainties and limitations, and by respecting cultural and contextual differences. This approach not only increases the social legitimacy of research but also accelerates its adoption and impact.

5. Diversity, accessibility, and global collaboration strengthen research confidence

The panel underscored the need for greater diversity among editors, reviewers, and authors, particularly from underrepresented regions. Expanding networks and including a wider range of perspectives enriches the research ecosystem and ensures that findings are relevant and applicable across contexts. Making research accessible, through open access, lay summaries, and policy briefs, broadens its reach and influence. Early career researchers are encouraged to seek diverse experiences, participate in peer review, and become “research influencers” by actively engaging with both expert and public audiences.