The SciComm Spectrum

In this episode, we welcome Ashley Tyrer, a neuroscientist and science communicator based in Aarhus, Denmark. Ashley’s research focuses on how our brains deal with uncertainty — why we make the decisions we do, and how our brain chemistry and past experiences shape those choices. But as much as she loves the data, she’s just as passionate about making science accessible to everyone.

Ashley is part of the Organisation for Human Brain Mapping’s Communications Committee (OHBM ComCom), where she leads the blog team and helps turn complex brain research into stories we can all connect with. We talk about why science communication matters to both scientists and the public, the importance of diversity in science, and how being relatable is the only way to build trust. We also touch on how the traditional image of a scientist is changing and the role of citizen science in societal progress.

This conversation is a refreshing reminder that science can and should be for everyone.

What you’ll learn: 👉 How neuroscience is helping us understand our reactions to uncertainty and surprise

👉 How this varies with neurodiversity and mental health conditions

👉 Why diversity, representation, and relatability are key to building public trust in science

👉 The growing role of citizen science and how we can all contribute to scientific discovery

👤 About the Ashley

Ashley Tyrer is a neuroscientist and science communicator based in Aarhus, Denmark. Her research explores how our brains process uncertainty and make decisions, focusing on the role of brain chemistry and individual differences. Beyond the lab, Ashley leads the blog team for the Organisation for Human Brain Mapping’s Communications Committee (OHBM ComCom), where she’s passionate about making neuroscience accessible, fostering diversity in science, and helping bridge the gap between researchers and the public.

Follow Ashely here:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleytyrer/ 

• Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:die4pjz2i5sntut36xzd7z5j 

• Email: [email protected]

• OHBM blog: https://www.ohbm-com.com/

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🔑 Episode Highlights

03:58 Decision Making and Prediction Errors

07:53 The Impact of Neurochemicals on Decision Making

12:23 Challenges in Mental Health Diagnosis

16:18 The Role of Science Communication

20:40 Involvement with OHBM and Science Outreach

26:55 Impact of Research on Daily Life

28:11 Understanding Brain Bites

30:28 The Role of Communication in Science

32:55 Challenges in Science Communication

38:01 Engagement and Community Feedback

40:01 Effective Science Communication Techniques

48:23 Advice for Aspiring Science Communicators

📲 Connect with The SciComm Spectrum

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thescicommspectrum 

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/youtube-scriptwriter/ 

Music by music_for_video from Pixabay 18169

Animations by TinMouse Studios

science podcast, careers in stem, science communicator, neuroscience, science communication, women in stem, citizen science, diversity in science, brain research, OHBM, human brain mapping, decision making, prediction error, mental health, Ashley Tyrer, podcast, research communication, trust in science, accessibility, public engagement, trust scientists, citizen science, DSM-5

Ever wondered how to pivot from academia into science communication? In this episode I sit down with Teja Sirec, founder of BioTheia, a consultancy helping life science and biotech companies build smart, lean marketing strategies.

After eight years as a microbiologist researching bacterial sporulation, Teja made the leap from the lab bench to the world of scientific communication and marketing. She now works as a fractional marketing director, helping startups and SMEs find their voice, and grow in competitive biotech markets.

If you’re a PhD or postdoc wondering what other possibilities lie beyond academia, or you’re keen to pivot into industry but need a bit of guidance to make the first steps, this episode will give you loads of insights on how to build your path with purpose.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

👉 How to test drive your way into a new career beyond the lab

👉 Why life science companies need storytelling and strategy to thrive and grow

👉 The surprising cultural differences between academia and industry

👉 Actionable advice for PhDs and postdocs thinking about pivoting from research into a communication career

👤 About Teja

Teja Sirec is a fractional marketing director and founder of BioTheia marketing consultancy for life science companies. After 8 years as a researcher looking into bacterial sporulation, Teja felt the call to follow a path in science communication. Little by little, she transitioned from the lab to science writing, marketing, and eventually launching her own life science marketing consultancy.

Now, she helps life science companies grow by building lean marketing strategies and communications plans that get them noticed. 

Follow Teja here:

• Website: ⁠⁠https://biotheia.com/⁠⁠ 
• LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/tejasirec/⁠⁠

⭐ Support the Show

If you enjoy the podcast, please:

• Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/2XPsYmqwsY898bs2ODraDn?si=0dcbf84e5a3042a4⁠⁠ 
• Share this episode with a friend
• Drop a comment on YouTube!

🔑 Episode Highlights

01:43 The Importance of Marketing in Biotech

03:44 Target Audience in Life Science Marketing

04:38 Innovations in Life Science Technologies

06:48 The Role of a Fractional Marketing Director

07:55 Navigating Early Stage Marketing Challenges

11:11 Transitioning from Academia to Marketing

19:02 Teja's Academic Background and Research

22:04 The Journey of Career Exploration

25:29 Transitioning to Science Writing

29:39 Expectations vs. Reality in Communications

32:05 Cultural Differences: Academia vs. Industry

35:06 Reflections on the Journey

38:07 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

📲 Connect with The SciComm Spectrum

• YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@thescicommspectrum⁠⁠ 
• Linkedin: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/youtube-scriptwriter/⁠⁠ 

Music by⁠⁠ music_for_video⁠⁠ from⁠⁠ Pixabay⁠⁠ 18169

Animations by TinMouse Studios

life science marketing, biotech marketing, PhD career change, academic to industry, biotech startups, fractional marketing director, BioTheia, Teja Sirec, scientific communication, career transition, science writing, STEM careers, biotech strategy, marketing for scientists, science careers, PhD jobs, lab to industry, biotechnology communication, marketing consultancy, biotech innovation, STEM marketing, science branding, life sciences industry, PhD transition, career advice for scientists, science communication, science communicator, science storytelling, science marketing

This week, we met Tom Sanders, founder and animation director of Tin Mouse Studios — a purpose-driven animation studio behind educational projects for the Science Museum, TED-Ed, the NHS and more. We explore what it takes to build a meaningful creative business that bridges science, storytelling, and design. From pitching ideas to crafting explainers for public health, Tom shares his insight into what makes science communication powerful.

The conversation dives into how AI is reshaping animation and education, and why human curiosity and critical thinking still lead the way. Tom discusses the art of turning complex topics into visual stories anyone can understand, the specific constraints of making video for different spaces, and how to balance creativity with accuracy. 

Tune in to hear how Tom’s purpose-first approach fuels both his business and creativity, and the lessons he’s learned from a decade of experience.

What you’ll learn in this episode: 

👉How to build a purpose-driven creative studio that blends animation, education, and science communication.

👉Why simplicity and storytelling outperform jargon when explaining complex scientific ideas.

👉A behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to create educational films for institutions like the Science Museum and NHS, from pitch to final animation.

👤 About the Guest

Tom is the founder and animation director of Tinmouse Animation Studios. For almost 10 years, Tinmouse has been creating content that truly matters through education and purpose-led projects, with clients including the London Science Museum, UK Parliament Education, TedEd and Imperial College London. He also runs a geography website for kids, Archie and Bean’s Adventures.

Follow Tom here:

• Website: https://www.tinmouseanimation.com/ 

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomsanderstinmouse/ 

• Science Museum Showcase: https://www.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk/whats-on/sound-and-vision 

• Archie and Beans: https://www.archiboldclutterbuck.co.uk/ 

If you enjoy the podcast:

• Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on https://open.spotify.com/show/2XPsYmqwsY898bs2ODraDn?si=0dcbf84e5a3042a4 

• Share this episode with a friend

• Drop a comment on YouTube!

🔑 Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Tinmouse Animation Studios

01:34 The Remote Studio Experience

02:11 The Animation Production Process

04:48 Diverse Projects and Niche Focus

07:26 Passion for Animation and Career Journey

09:03 Evolution of Animation Practices

09:50 The Impact of AI on Animation

13:52 The Importance of Research in Educational Content

15:59 Case Study: Science Museum Project

21:46 Navigating Multiple Roles in Animation

23:12 Building Confidence in a Non-Traditional Career

28:27 Case Study: COVID-19 Educational Videos

31:37 Creating Relatable Content in Animation

34:53 Measuring Success in Educational Videos

38:10 Balancing Creativity and Accuracy in Science Communication

41:03 The Animation Production Process

47:01 Passion for Education and Geography

50:55 Future Aspirations and the Role of AI in Animation

📲 Connect with The SciComm Spectrum

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thescicommspectrum 

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/youtube-scriptwriter/ 

Music by music_for_video from Pixabay 18169

Animations by TinMouse Studios

science communication, animation studio, educational animation, Tin Mouse Studios, science storytelling, explainer videos, museum education, Science Museum London, NHS communication, creative business, purpose driven studio, storytelling in science, visual communication, creative careers, STEM education, educational media, digital learning, animation process, science explainer, educational content creation, creative entrepreneurship, science engagement, educational storytelling

Today we talk with Victor Lee, founder of MedProductions, a studio turning complex biotech and pharma science into clear, engaging animations.

Victor shares how he went from making science YouTube videos during the pandemic to building a business with his brother, and why storytelling and creativity are at the heart of effective science communication. He explains how tailoring content for patients, investors, or pharma teams means simplifying without losing accuracy — and why enthusiasm often matters more than credentials.

Victor reflects on his path through biomedical engineering, molecular biology, cognitive science, and teaching, as well as launching a biotech venture in Honduras. He stresses the value of referrals, partnerships, and starting before you feel ready. The conversation also explores the overlap between teaching teens and pitching biotech CEOs, and future trends.

What you’ll learn

👉 How to adapt science stories for different audiences without losing impact

👉 Why passion, persistence, and referrals can matter more than certificates

👉 Insights into biotech trends and opportunities in science communication

👤 About the Guest

Victor Lee is the founder of MedProductions, a science animation studio that works with biotech and pharma companies to turn complex science into stories people can understand and remember. He’s also the host of Biotech Orbit, and ex-science teacher, and founder Bio-Gen Life, a genetic testing kit distribution company for cancer prevention in Honduras.

Follow Victor

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-lee-aplicano/MedProductions: https://medproductions.media

Support the show

Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2XPsYmqwsY898bs2ODraDn?si=0dcbf84e5a3042a4

Share this episode with a friend

Drop a comment on YouTube!

🔑 Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Victor Lee and Med Productions

01:18 The Journey to Starting Med Productions

04:45 Client Engagement and Project Lifecycle

06:21 Understanding Pharma vs. Biotech Companies

08:30 Tailoring Content for Different Audiences

09:39 Balancing Simplicity and Scientific Accuracy

11:14 The Importance of Passion in Science Communication

13:56 Collaboration Dynamics with Creative Partners

15:21 Imagining a Pixar-style Biotech Story

15:40 Victor's Academic Background and Transition to Industry

18:36 Advice for Academics Seeking Creativity

20:39 Teaching Experience and Its Impact on Communication

24:42 The Role of Confidence in Learning Science

28:08 Connecting with Diverse Audiences in Science Communication

29:09 Breaking Barriers in Science Communication

30:01 From Teaching to Industry: A Journey of Growth

31:44 Building a Business: The Story of Biogen Life

36:26 Cultural Insights in Medical Interventions

38:16 The Art of Networking: Building Relationships

39:41 Overcoming Nervousness: The Power of 'Why'

41:15 Exploring the Biotech Orbit Podcast

44:51 Innovations in Biotech: The Promise of Organoids

46:39 Defining Identity: Entrepreneur, Communicator, or Builder?

50:26 Key Takeaways: Starting and Staying Focused

📲 Connect with The SciComm Spectrum

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thescicommspectrum

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/youtube-scriptwriter/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XPsYmqwsY898bs2ODraDn?si=e466ba0e33884422

Music by music_for_video from Pixabay 18169

Animations by TinMouse Studios

science communication, science storytelling, science animation, communicating science, science explained, biotech storytelling, biotech communication, pharma communication, biotech animation, med productions, Victor Lee biotech, Victor Lee Med Productions, biotech orbit podcast,, SciComm Spectrum podcast, science for investors, science made simple, explain complex science, turning science into stories, biotech entrepreneurship

In the very first episode of The SciComm Spectrum, host Julia Masselos sits down with Heathcote to explore the evolving world of science communication in the digital age.

From working with radiologists and psychologists to building strategies for YouTube science channels, Heathcote shares how his unconventional career path led him into the heart of the creator economy.

This wide-ranging conversation dives into the power of storytelling in science, how to overcome the curse of knowledge, and why imposter syndrome doesn’t have to hold you back.

Heathcote also unpacks the role of AI in radiology, the challenges of keeping content both engaging and evidence-based, and the rising problem of misinformation online.

If you’re curious about the future of science communication, want to learn how experts and communicators can better connect with audiences, or are looking for inspiration to carve out your own path in SciComm, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

What you’ll learn in this episode

👉 How to turn a non-linear, “zigzag” career path into a strength in science communication and digital media, even without a scientific background

👉 Practical strategies for helping experts (like doctors and scientists) share knowledge online through YouTube, storytelling, and copywriting

👉 Insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, building authentic content, and using a “spiky point of view” to stand out in a crowded creator economy.

👤 About the Guest

Heathcote Ruthven is a writer and marketer who works with health and science YouTubers, including two of the biggest radiologists on the platform.His mission is to help evidence-based creators tell better stories so they can cut through noise, cut through the insane misinformation and low quality content online, and teach what they know in a way that sticks.

Follow Heathcote

Website: https://www.storiedexperts.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathcote-ruthven/

If you enjoy the podcast

Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review

Share this episode with a friend

Drop a comment on YouTube!

🔑 Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction and Background

01:57 The Value of a Zigzag Career

03:16 Transitioning into Radiology and YouTube

05:33 Daily Life as a YouTube Content Creator

07:47 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

09:56 The Importance of Communication in Science

12:46 Navigating Audience Expectations

15:06 The Role of Experts in Content Creation

17:16 Finding Your Niche in YouTube

19:59 Advice for Aspiring Creators

22:21 Building Connections and Networking

31:16 Active Listening: The Key to Connection

33:56 Finding Meaning in Science Communication

36:21 The Power of Educational Communities

39:25 The Importance of Peer Feedback

45:28 Navigating Misinformation in the Digital Age

49:17 The Role of Evidence-Based Communication

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned

Heathcote’s academic paper: Perspective: AI Productivity Will Not Benefit Employed Radiologists - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S3050577125000313

Radiologist Dr. Christoph Agten’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DrChristophAgten

Edutainers Founder Ed Lawrence: https://www.youtube.com/@ed-lawrence

George Blackman’s scriptwriter resources: https://www.georgeblackman.com/

Sean’s CopyThat YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@CopyThat

Nicolas Cole and Dickie Bush’s Shop 30 for 30 writing course: https://www.ship30for30.com/

📲 Connect with The SciComm Spectrum

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thescicommspectrum Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/youtube-scriptwriter/

Music by music_for_video from Pixabay 18169Animations by TinMouse Studios

YouTube strategy, storytelling for experts, content marketing, science communication, YouTube growth, YouTube for doctors, medical professionals online, healthcare marketing, radiology education, medical YouTubers, imposter syndrome, building authority online, spiky point of view, online education communities, expert storytelling

Welcome to The SciComm Spectrum Podcast!

This is a podcast for anyone who wants to make a living talking about science.

Each week, host Julia Masselos sits down with a guest who has built an unconventional career in science communication — from writers, filmmakers, and ex-academics, to entrepreneurs, educators, and more.

Through their stories, we explore all the different ways science can be communicated to the public, why it matters, and how you can get involved. Whether you’re curious about careers outside the lab, passionate about making science more accessible, or just love a good documentary, this podcast is for you.

👉 Subscribe now to The SciComm Spectrum and join us as we explore the endless possibilities of science communication. New episodes drop weekly during each season — so don’t miss out!

🔗 Stay Connected with Me

• Email: [email protected]

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/youtube-scriptwriter/ 

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thescicommspectrum 

Credits

Animation by Tinmouse Studio

Music by music_for_video from Pixabay 18169

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