IAO Media Academy

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Register your place on the Imperial As One Media Academy 2022

Imperial As One is working with the College’s communications team to run a brand-new training programme for Imperial’s Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff and PGR students. The Imperial As One Media Academy (IAOMA) will provide expert training and development across a range of subjects to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills to confidently and professionally communicate their work and status as experts in their field.

The IAOMA will be open to all Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff at Imperial and will be particularly useful for academic and research staff looking to learn how to increase and widen the impact of their research, translation and teaching through traditional and digital media, and policy engagement. The IAOMA has the full support of the College’s leadership as a valuable professional development programme.

Please note:

  • Priority for this year's IAO Media Academy will be given to those who did not attend last year's IAOMA sessions—if you did attend in 2021 and would like to be placed on the waiting list, please email equality@imperial.ac.uk.
  • Those enrolling on the Media Academy are expected to attend all the sessions of the course.
  • Terms and conditions.

Session breakdown

Each session will take approximately half a day

SESSION 1: Media training for journalist interviews | 25 April 2022 13:00-16:00

Building confidence and skills to become a key media player/communicator. This session will cover communicating your key messages in media interviews, handling sensitive questions, and how to keep interviews on track (e.g., talk about my research, not race). With practical interview practice and feedback.  

In this session you will learn:

  • about the wider media landscape;
  • practical tips for talking to the media and journalist Interviews;
  • panel discussion on an Imperial researchers’ experience working with our press office and the media.

SESSION 2: Powerful Words | 9 May 2022 9:30-11:30

Gain skills in crafting powerful words to carry your messages to a wide range of audiences. Learn how to translate your science into news articles, blog posts and editorials/opinion pieces.

In this session you will learn:

  • how to write good copy;
  • the different types of writing formats;
  • what journalists and editors look for in commentaries and opinion pieces.

You will also be set a practical writing task and get feedback from the trainer at the end of the session.

SESSION 3: Social Media | 24 May 2022 9:00-12:00 (main session) and 13:00-14:00 (panel discussion)

Learning how to get the most out of social media in a personal-professional setting: from which platforms to choose and cutting through the noise to positioning yourself as an expert and staying safe online.

In this session you will learn:

  • what is social media (really)?;
  • the platforms and what they are for;
  • managing the information overload;
  • about trolls and other undesirables;
  • how to post better and become an influencer.

SESSION 4:

Part one: How to Use Video | 7 June 2022 9:30-11:00

The ubiquity of smartphones means anyone can make a video, but how can you make the best video and use it to promote your research?

In this session you will learn:

  • what to consider before filming;
  • simple technical tricks to get the best shots;
  • how to plan and edit a video;
  • what equipment you can use to enhance your videos.

You will also practice filming a short video clip of yourself and get feedback from the instructor.

Part two: Introduction to Podcasting | 7 June 2022 14:00-15:30

Whether you are interested in appearing on podcasts or have had an idea for starting one yourself, they are an excellent way to reach a dedicated audience and demonstrate your expertise.

In this session you will learn:

  • the benefits of appearing on and creating podcasts;
  • how podcasts are put together;
  • key considerations when starting a podcast;
  • interview techniques;
  • how to get involved with the Imperial College Podcast, and what support the College can offer.

You will also have the chance to test your interviewer and interviewee skills, and receive a list of resources for podcasting.

SESSION 5: Public Affairs and Policy | 20 June 9:30-12:00

The Forum training session aims to demystify government and Parliament by explaining how to engage successfully with policymakers.

During the session, you will:

  • gain an improved understanding of the governmental landscape and key players;
  • hear about the policymaking process;
  • learn practical tips for engaging with Parliament and the Civil Service.