Modular Workshop: »Explaining Science with Images«

Theory and application of visual science communication This interactive and modular workshop is designed specifically for scientists seeking to improve their skills in graphic design and visual communication. The core aim is to enable participants to effectively analyze, design, and implement impactful images for publications and presentations, fostering a critical understanding of how research results and visual representation interrelate.

Structure & Content

• Day 1: Foundations and Theory Participants explore the historic and conceptual foundations of scientific visual representation, including the evolution of imagery in science and essential principles of visual communication. Key components such as tools, typography, color theory, and layout are introduced, with a focus on practical analysis and the strategic use of visuals for clarity and comprehension.
• Day 2: Application and Practice The second day emphasizes application: After a stepwise introduction to vector illustration techniques and the use of Adobe Illustrator, researchers work on their personal projects. Individual feedback is provided in an open workshop setting, supporting direct implementation of concepts and skills acquired.
• Module A: Online Feedback (½ day) Following a two-week independent work phase, participants upload their visual projects to a digital whiteboard. In a double-blind review format, peers provide structured feedback, which is then discussed and moderated to ensure targeted improvement and learning.
• Module B: 1:1 Online-Coaching (30-minute sessions) During the project phase and after peer review, participants can schedule one-on-one coaching sessions to address specific challenges or questions regarding their visualizations, receiving tailored advice to refine their outputs.

Format & Customization

The workshop is modular an can be customized for the institutions needs. Alternative formats include key notes (1,5 hours), impulse workshops (3–4 hours) as well as online-only webinars.

Most commonly booked formats: – 2-Day On-Site Workshop (Theory & Practice) → 2-Day Design Workshop (on site) – 1½-Day Hybrid Workshop (Theory + Online Feedback) → 1½ Day Design Workshop (Hybrid)

The trainer

Dr. Johannes Richers is a scientist and designer located in Tübingen, Germany. In his work, the independent creative combines the fields of science, art and design. He received his academic education from the Technical University of Munich (M.Sc. Chemistry and Dr. rer. nat.), the Technical University in Berlin (2nd M.Sc. in Science Marketing), and the Hasso Plattner Institute in Potsdam (Design Thinking). He was supported by the German National Academic Foundation (Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes), received the ‘SciFinder Future Leader Award’ from the American Chemical Society in 2016, and was selected as ‘Artist in Residence’ at Factory Berlin × Sonar+D in 2019.

Jo Richers has designed more than 100 cover pages for scientific journals, has contributed to a range of successful research grant proposals (incl. ESC, POF, SFB, COE, NCCR) and is eager to share his knowledge in a variety of seminars and workshops.