Science Slam
“It pays to try things out”
It will be time for science to take center stage again at our next KWS Science Slam on October 8. Long-time slammer Manuel Maidorn explains how preparing for a slam can help in everyday working life.
Manuel Maidorn helps as a coach to ensure that KWS slammers give rousing talks.
Manuel, you studied biochemistry and molecular biology. How did you get into science slams?
My first slam was in 2014 while I was doing my doctorate. I was already familiar with the format from my student days in Berlin, when we went to watch various slams together. At some point, I felt the urge to try it out myself. Funnily enough, it was during a conference in Türkiye. That was the first Istanbul Science Slam, which I even won. Since then, the format has never ceased to captivate me.
What skills did you develop there that help you in your everyday (professional) life?
A science slam is about communicating complex content in an understandable, exciting and memorable way. The biggest learning effect was to detach myself from the presentation and interact directly with the audience. It makes a lot of difference when you realize who is actually sitting there and why – and that also helped me a lot with presentations in an academic setting, for example in defending my doctoral dissertation.
Why should everyone take part in a science slam?
In the research and scientific world, people often only communicate in their own immediate environment. The science slam is different: You have to inspire people. Especially at the beginning, that definitely takes you outside your comfort zone. But you’ll be richly rewarded for it: honest enthusiasm, a positive image of your own work among the audience and, of course, more self-confidence in your own presentations. It’s certainly worth trying it out!
Can you describe a particularly inspiring moment you experienced at a science slam?
Even as an active slammer, I found it exciting to see how many different areas of research there are and which you would probably have never heard of without the slam. I’m still inspired by the many different personalities who are able to convey their topics in very different ways. I still try to keep up this dialogue and offer insights into exciting topics as a moderator and organizer of science slams.
What are your top five tips for presenting and organizing a talk?
- Forget your slides, as they’re just images. You are the star!
- Don’t use illustrations from scientific publications.
- Charisma, (body) language, rhythm – all of them are more important than you think. But you quickly learn to pay attention to them.
- Less is more – and take breaks!
- Really, the slides are just an accessory for dramaturgy and visual orientation. You yourself make the presentation. |
INFO
This year, on September 8, Manuel will again stage a public training course with Carlos Guentner for anyone wishing to improve their presentation skills. Further information will be posted on the intranet. The next KWS Science Slam will be held in Einbeck on October 8 from 4 to 6 p.m. The event will be live-streamed for all employees. More information can be found on the intranet and in Manuel’s training course from the previous year. |
© KWS SAAT SE & Co. KGaA 2025
