Curiosity often leads to unexpected and remarkable paths. At the University of Oxford, postdoctoral researcher Dr. Chenying Liu discovered a new passion during the COVID-19 lockdown—science communication. What began as a simple writing internship evolved into a journey filled with prestigious awards and national recognition. Her story reflects how openness to learning, willingness to try new things, and the courage to begin can transform a research career.
Table of Contents
Early Beginnings: A Leap into Science Communication
First Step: Chenying began by writing articles about the connection between origami and mathematics.
No Formal Training: Without a background in communication, she relied on feedback to improve.
Confidence Growth: Speaking to the public helped her become more comfortable in English and clearer in her academic talks.
Reflection: “Engaging with the public continuously refined my ability to explain complex ideas,” she said.
Chenying’s Early Science Communication Experience
Aspect
Details
Topic
Origami and mathematics
Method
Writing internship with Tom Rocks Maths
Challenge
No formal training in communication
Improvement Method
Practice, feedback, and repetition
Result
Increased clarity in communication and confidence in public speaking
Exploring New Avenues: Videos and Collaboration
Oxford Sparks Video: A video project on origami robotics reached unexpected audiences.
Collaboration: A researcher reached out after seeing her video, leading to potential joint projects.
Realisation: Public engagement is not just for outreach—it helps build scientific relationships too.
Perspective: Sharing science publicly can bring people together to explore new ideas.
Benefits of Public Communication for Researchers
Benefit
Description
Broader Reach
Videos and articles attract interest from scientists across disciplines
Collaboration Opportunities
Viewers may initiate partnerships and research dialogues
Skill Enhancement
Clear communication enhances academic presentation quality
Creative Freedom
Engagement allows a unique expression of complex science
Building Recognition: Confidence in Action
Increased Confidence: Regular public talks prepared Chenying for formal events like her DPhil viva.
Award Application: She applied for the British Science Festival Award Lecture during her thesis writing.
Outcome: Her confidence and experience helped her succeed in the application.
Confidence Through Communication
Activity
Impact
Public engagement sessions
Improved confidence in speaking and explaining technical subjects
DPhil Viva preparation
Practice from public events helped during the academic defence
Award Lecture Application
Experience made the process easier and achievable
Achieving the Josh Award: A National Milestone
Award Recognition: In 2024, Chenying won the Josh Award for Science Communication.
Project Theme: “Sustainable Origami: Art, Robotics, Construction, and Space Exploration.”
Audience Involvement: People built origami birds, flowers, shelters, and solar panels from recycled materials.
Festival Tour: The project will travel to festivals and centres across the UK.
Highlights of the Josh Award-Winning Project
Component
Details
Project Name
Sustainable Origami
Focus Areas
Art, robotics, construction, space science
Audience Activities
Origami-based creations using recycled materials
Educational Value
Blends creativity with scientific exploration
Outreach Platform
Science festivals and discovery centres
Continuing the Journey: New Audiences and Fresh Challenges
Postdoctoral Phase: Chenying continues science outreach while working as a researcher.
New Engagement: An origami workshop at the Cheltenham Science Festival is her next big step.
Uncertainty Embraced: She doesn’t always know who the audience will be, but stays positive and flexible.
Mindset: “Just give it a go,” she advises others.
Science Communication at Cheltenham Festival
Event
Details
Festival Name
Cheltenham Science Festival
Activity
Origami workshop
Date
8 June 2025
Expected Audience
Diverse participants – children, students, general public
Approach
Adaptive and inclusive, with hands-on learning
Lessons for Aspiring Researchers
Dr. Chenying Liu’s path shows how any researcher, regardless of background or confidence level, can succeed in science communication by beginning with small steps and building gradually.
Key Takeaways for Researchers
Start Small Begin with a short article, video, or public talk.
Practice Brings Confidence Public speaking and clear writing become easier with repetition.
Engagement Enhances Academia Communication skills benefit both research presentations and interdisciplinary collaborations.
Say Yes to Opportunities Many valuable experiences start with informal conversations and unexpected invites.
No Perfect Time to Begin Communication can grow alongside research without needing to wait for the “right” moment.
Chenying Liu’s Science Communication Lessons
Lesson
Explanation
Start light
Begin with manageable efforts to ease into science outreach
Build slowly
Learn through experience, feedback, and steady involvement
Be open to surprises
Public engagement can lead to collaborations and unexpected success
Use creativity
Merge science with the arts to make it more approachable
Keep growing
Continue learning through each new audience and challenge
Looking Ahead
Dr. Chenying Liu’s journey from a curious intern to an award-winning science communicator proves that impactful engagement starts with curiosity and a single step. Her story encourages other researchers to explore communication not just as a side project, but as a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. Through creativity, adaptability, and an open mind, even complex science can become accessible and inspiring to everyone.
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