As researchers, showcasing our work and results is an integral aspect of our profession. We have numerous opportunities to do so, from seminars and conference talks to poster presentations. However, the question remains: are we truly connecting with our audience?

At the ILLC, we are committed to helping you to ensure that your research is well-understood and efficiently fosters connections. To facilitate this, we have established the Communication Commission, dedicated to equipping you with the tools necessary to become a more effective communicator.

Our primary objective is to allow researchers to progressively improve their communication skills, much like how peer reviews aid in enhancing scientific writing. To do that, we organize brainstorming and feedback sessions. You can take advantage of one of these sessions every time you will present a new topic. These sessions will be run by two to three of your (volunteer) colleagues and they will be focused on discussing the communicative aspects of your presentation.

If you need to reach the commission, use our dedicated email address: comcom-illc at uva.nl

• Join us as a volunteer

  The communication commission relies on its volunteers. We are seeking volunteers to shape the feedback and brainstorming committees; the more volunteers we have, the more impactful this project becomes. Becoming a volunteer simply involves notifying us of your willingness to participate; however, you will always keep the choice of whether to join a specific session or not.

  Each session requires just 30 minutes – 10 minutes for reviewing the materials provided by the initiator and 20 minutes for the session itself. This modest time investment yields significant rewards, providing you insights into diverse presentation styles, effective strategies, and valuable lessons for your own projects. Furthermore, the commission is dedicated to hosting brief training sessions, equipping volunteers with communication techniques applicable not only to your role here but also to your own work.

  Join us as a volunteer by dropping an email at comcom-illc at uva.nl!

• The Commission

  If you wish not only to leverage this initiative but also contribute to its structure and trajectory, you can join the commission.

  With many members, we can organize exciting projects for the whole community, including personalized researcher training, enjoyable social activities that improve communication skills, chances to connect with communication experts, expanding communication efforts to other events, and any other communication activity you have in mind.

  Currently, the commission is formed by Julian Chingoma, Ronald de Haan, Daira Pinto Prieto, and Simon Rey.

  Drop us an email at comcom-illc at uva.nl if you want to join!

• Request Our Services

  To submit a request, fill in the request form.