Fall 2023 ESSS 4: Creating Effective scientific Figures

Location: McNeil 313

Date & Time: October 23, 12-1pm

Presenters: Dr. Prashun Gorai, Colorado School of Mines, National Renewable Energy Laboratory

Visual communication has been around for as long as humans have been communicating. The earliest forms of visual communication were cave paintings, which were used to depict hunting scenes and other important events. As humans evolved, they began to use more sophisticated forms of visual communication, such as writing and drawing. Today, visual communication is an essential part of our lives. We use it to communicate with each other, to learn about the world, and to be entertained. It is a powerful tool that can be used to inform, persuade, and inspire. In the context of scientific communication, visual communication is used to illustrate data, concepts, and processes. It can be used to make complex information more understandable and to communicate ideas more effectively. Creating effective scientific figures can be a daunting task. However, there are a few key principles that can help you create figures that are clear, concise, and accurate. In this interactive seminar, we will discuss the basic principles of making scientific figures and tips on making them more effective in communicating the message. We will together critique real examples of scientific figures taken from journal articles. Ultimately, scientific communication is an artform – make it beautiful and engaging, and develop your unique style. 

About the Speaker

Dr. Prashun Gorai is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering at the Colorado School of Mines. He has a joint appointment at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). His research group uses computational tools, including first-principles methods and machine learning, to discover and design new materials for energy applications. In middle school, he aspired to be an artist (painter) and study animal migration, but then fell in love with science, especially chemistry. He enjoys travel photography and feels inspired by the visuals in Studio Ghibli movies.