Science Storytelling: How to Make Complex Biotech Research Engaging
Luke McLaughlin
Scientific Digital Marketing, Synthetic Biology, Nucleic Acid Therapeutics and Antibody Engineering, Biotech Writer | Manager of Marketing And Business Development, Stay Curious, Stay Innovative
In biotechnology, groundbreaking discoveries happen every day, yet their full impact is often lost in translation. The challenge isn’t just making complex science understandable, it’s making it compelling. Whether presenting research to investors, securing regulatory approvals, or engaging the public, how you tell your story determines whether your message sticks or gets ignored.
Traditional science communication is often dense, filled with jargon, and focused on methods rather than meaning. But science storytelling changes that turn abstract data into narratives that inspire action, simplify complexity, and drive engagement. By using strategic storytelling techniques, biotech professionals can bridge the gap between research and real world impact.
This article explores the most effective ways to translate biotech breakthroughs into engaging, persuasive, and accessible stories, helping you capture attention, influence decision makers, and ensure your science makes a difference.
Key Focus Points : 5 Ways to Make Biotech Research Engaging
Science is no longer just about discovery, it’s about communication. Master the art of storytelling, and your biotech research won’t just be understood; it will be remembered, funded, and acted upon.
In the world of biotechnology, innovation moves fast, but public understanding often lags behind. Whether you're presenting research to investors, communicating with policymakers, or engaging the general public, how you tell your story determines how well your message is received.
Scientific discoveries are often intricate, filled with jargon, data, and statistical analyses that can overwhelm non experts. Science storytelling bridges the gap between complexity and comprehension, making research more digestible and impactful.
But how do we turn dense biotech research into engaging narratives?
Start with the "Why" – The Human Connection
“People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it.” – Simon Sinek
This principle applies to science communication just as much as it does to business and branding. When discussing biotech research, it’s easy to jump straight into the what (technical details) and the how (methods and processes). However, without first establishing the why, your audience may not see the relevance of your work.
Why Does "Why" Matter?
Science is often seen as abstract and detached from everyday life. But behind every discovery is a real world problem being solved, whether it’s treating a disease, advancing sustainable food production, or improving diagnostics.
By starting with why your research matters, you make an emotional connection—which is far more memorable and engaging than raw data. This approach is especially critical when speaking to non scientists, policymakers, or investors who may not have the same technical background but care about the outcomes.
How to Find the "Why" in Biotech Research
Before crafting your story, answer these key questions:
By framing research through these questions, we shift the focus from "Here’s what we did" to "Here’s why it matters."
Examples of Starting with the "Why" in Biotech Storytelling
Example 1: Gene Therapy for Rare Diseases
○ Bad Example (Technical First Approach): "Our research focuses on developing an AAV based gene therapy that corrects single gene mutations responsible for inherited neuromuscular disorders."
? Good Example (Why First Approach): "Imagine being told your child has a genetic disease that has no cure. Every day, their muscles weaken, and there’s nothing doctors can do. But what if a single treatment could correct the faulty gene and stop the disease in its tracks? That’s exactly what our new gene therapy is designed to do."
# Why it works:
Example 2: AI in Cancer Diagnostics
○ Bad Example: "Our AI based image recognition model uses deep learning to analyze radiological scans and detect malignancies with 92% accuracy."
? Good Example: "What if a computer could detect cancer earlier than a human doctor? Every year, thousands of people die from undiagnosed or late stage cancers—not because the technology doesn’t exist, but because early symptoms are often missed. Our AI powered tool scans medical images with incredible accuracy, helping doctors catch cancer sooner and save lives."
# Why it works:
Techniques for Crafting a Powerful "Why" in Biotech Storytelling
Here are three effective storytelling techniques to craft a strong "Why":
1. Start with a Story (Narrative Framing)
People remember stories far better than facts. Instead of presenting research abstractly, tell a real or hypothetical story about a person affected by the problem.
?? Example: CRISPR for Sickle Cell Disease Instead of: ○ "Our CRISPR based therapy targets HbS mutations to restore normal hemoglobin function in sickle cell patients."
Try: ? "Meet James. He’s 16 years old and has sickle cell disease. Every few weeks, he experiences agonizing pain crises, and his future is uncertain. But what if a single gene edit could permanently cure him? That’s what our latest CRISPR therapy is working to achieve."
Why it works:
2. Use "What If?" Scenarios
A "What if?" question immediately makes people think about possibilities and engages their imagination.
?? Example: Lab Grown Meat & Food Sustainability Instead of:
○ "We use stem cell cultures to produce alternative protein sources that mimic the taste and texture of real meat."
Try: ? "What if we could produce real meat without killing animals? What if we could reduce carbon emissions from agriculture while still feeding millions? Our lab grown meat technology is turning that vision into reality."
Why it works:
3. Highlight the Stakes (What’s at Risk?)
If there’s no urgency or consequence, people won’t feel the importance of the research. Emphasizing what’s at risk makes the research feel necessary.
?? Example: Antibiotic Resistance Crisis
○ "Our team is engineering novel antimicrobial peptides to combat drug resistant bacteria."
? "By 2050, antibiotic resistant infections could kill 10 million people annually—more than cancer. Without new treatments, routine surgeries and minor infections could become deadly. Our research is racing to develop next generation antibiotics before it’s too late."
Why it works:
How to Effectively Start with "Why"
? Frame your research as a solution to a real world problem (rather than just describing the science).
? Use storytelling, "What if?" questions, and real life stakes to create emotional engagement.
? Make it relevant to your audience—whether it's policymakers, investors, scientists, or the public.
? Once they care about the "Why," then explain the "What" and "How."
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In biotech storytelling, the science alone isn’t enough—you need to connect with your audience on an emotional level. Starting with why transforms dry research into a compelling narrative, making even the most technical discoveries engaging, accessible, and impactful.
Next time you present your biotech research, ask yourself: "Why should my audience care?" If you can answer that, you’re already on the path to great storytelling.
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Use the "And, But, Therefore" (ABT) Narrative Formula
One of the most effective ways to make biotech research engaging is to use the And, But, Therefore (ABT) formula, developed by scientist turned filmmaker Randy Olson. This technique helps transform complex, technical explanations into compelling narratives that flow naturally and keep audiences engaged.
What is the ABT Formula?
The ABT formula follows a simple yet powerful structure:
This structure mimics how our brains process engaging stories, creating a natural cause and effect flow.
Example: "Science is constantly advancing, AND biotech innovations are pushing the boundaries of medicine. BUT many diseases still have no cure, leaving millions without hope. THEREFORE, our latest gene editing therapy offers a potential one time cure for these patients."
This format creates tension (BUT) and resolves it (THEREFORE), making the message more persuasive and memorable than just stating facts.
Why is ABT Powerful for Biotech Storytelling?
How to Use ABT for Biotech Storytelling
Now, let’s apply ABT to real world biotech examples.
Example 1: CRISPR Gene Therapy
○ Without ABT (Flat, Less Engaging) "Our research focuses on CRISPR technology, which allows precise gene editing. We have developed a new method that improves efficiency by 30%. We believe this could be useful for genetic disorders."
? With ABT (Engaging, Narrative Driven) "Genetic diseases affect millions of people, AND traditional treatments often only manage symptoms. BUT these conditions are caused by faulty genes, and current therapies cannot correct them at the source. THEREFORE, we developed a CRISPR based therapy that directly repairs these genes, offering a potential one time cure."
?? Why it works:
Example 2: AI in Drug Discovery
○ Without ABT (Technical, Hard to Follow) "AI can analyze molecular structures to predict drug interactions. We built a deep learning model that reduces screening time by 40%. This could improve drug discovery efficiency."
? With ABT (Clearer, More Impactful) "Developing new drugs is expensive and time consuming, AND it takes over a decade for many treatments to reach patients. BUT traditional drug discovery methods rely on trial and error, making the process inefficient. THEREFORE, we built an AI powered platform that predicts drug interactions faster and more accurately, cutting development time in half."
?? Why it works:
Example 3: Lab Grown Meat & Sustainability
○ Without ABT (Informative but Not Engaging) "We are developing lab grown meat using stem cell technology. This approach reduces the need for animal farming and decreases carbon emissions. It has the potential to revolutionize food production."
? With ABT (More Compelling & Persuasive) "The global demand for meat is rising, AND industrial farming is a major contributor to deforestation and climate change. BUT raising animals for food consumes massive resources and produces significant emissions. THEREFORE, we are developing lab grown meat, which provides the same taste and nutrition as conventional meat without harming animals or the planet."
?? Why it works:
How to Implement ABT in Different Communication Formats
The ABT formula can be used across multiple biotech communication channels
By applying ABT, you ensure that your message is clear, engaging, and action driven—whether you're talking to scientists, investors, policymakers, or the public.
ABT Mistakes to Avoid
* Too Many "ANDs" (No Conflict, Too Flat)
○ "We developed a new vaccine, AND it is effective, AND it is safe, AND it will help prevent infections."
? Fix: Introduce a "BUT" to create contrast and make it engaging: "Vaccines save lives, AND they are essential in preventing infectious diseases. BUT developing new vaccines is slow and expensive, delaying treatments. THEREFORE, we designed a novel mRNA vaccine that can be produced 5x faster, accelerating the fight against emerging diseases."
* Weak "BUT" (No Real Conflict)
○ "CRISPR is a powerful gene editing tool, BUT it still requires careful handling." (This isn’t a strong contrast.)
? Fix: "CRISPR has revolutionized genetic medicine, AND it has the potential to cure inherited diseases. BUT off target effects and unintended mutations pose risks to patient safety. THEREFORE, we developed a precision editing system that improves accuracy by 95%, making gene therapy safer than ever before."
Why ABT Works for Biotech Storytelling
? People remember contrast and resolution – ABT naturally builds a compelling narrative.
? Makes complex biotech research more accessible – Even non experts can follow the story.
? Drives action and engagement – Whether it's funding, policy change, or scientific collaboration, ABT motivates audiences.
? Works across multiple communication formats – From social media to investor pitches, ABT is a universal storytelling tool.
Next time you communicate biotech research, use ABT to structure your message. If you can summarize your work in an ABT statement, you’re telling a great science story. TARGET
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Use Analogies & Metaphors
Jargon is a barrier. Metaphors and analogies make abstract concepts relatable.
Example: CRISPR Gene Editing
○ "CRISPR Cas9 functions as a prokaryotic adaptive immune system that uses guide RNA to direct sequence specific DNA cleavage."
? "Think of CRISPR as molecular scissors. It finds the faulty gene, snips it out, and replaces it with a corrected version—just like editing a typo in a Word document."
The second version creates an instant mental image, making the science tangible.
Using Analogies, Metaphors, and Simplified Imagery to Convey Complex Biotech Concepts
When dealing with complex biotechnology topics, words alone often fall short—especially for audiences outside the field. This is where simplified imagery, structured analogies, and infographics become powerful tools to enhance comprehension.
A well crafted visual metaphor or infographic can convey intricate biological processes in a way that is:
? Faster to understand than paragraphs of explanation
? More engaging for non biotech audiences
? Memorable, making it easier for investors, policymakers, or professionals from other fields to recall key ideas
This approach doesn’t oversimplify biotech concepts to the point of inaccuracy—instead, it clarifies essential ideas while keeping technical integrity.
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Why Analogies & Visuals Work Better Than Text Alone
?The Problem:
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The Solution: Combine Simplified Visuals with Strong Analogies
Example: Why Visuals Work If you explain protein folding disorders using only text, many people will struggle to follow.
But if you show two images—one of a correctly folded origami crane and another of a crumpled mess, people immediately grasp the concept of "misfolding" without needing a long explanation.
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How Simplified Imagery & Infographics Enhance Biotech Communication
Let’s break down how different types of visuals can be used to explain biotech concepts more effectively.
A. Process Diagrams – Showing How Things Work
# Best for: Explaining step by step biological mechanisms like CRISPR gene editing, drug development, or cell therapy.
?Example: CRISPR Gene Editing ?? Text Explanation: "CRISPR Cas9 is an RNA guided endonuclease that recognizes a specific genomic sequence and introduces a double strand break, allowing targeted gene modifications."
?? Visual Alternative:
?? Why This Works:
B. Comparative Infographics – Emphasizing Differences
# Best for: Before & after comparisons, demonstrating why a new biotech innovation is superior to existing methods.
?Example: mRNA Vaccines vs. Traditional Vaccines ?? Text Explanation: "Traditional vaccines introduce an inactivated virus to trigger an immune response, while mRNA vaccines use a synthetic messenger RNA sequence to instruct cells to produce a harmless viral protein that stimulates immunity."
?? Visual Alternative:
?? Why This Works:
C. Conceptual Metaphor Diagrams – Making Abstract Science More Concrete
# Best for: Explaining intangible or invisible processes (e.g., microbiome dynamics, cellular communication, epigenetics).
?Example: The Human Microbiome as a City ?? Text Explanation: "The microbiome is a diverse ecosystem of trillions of bacteria that interact with the immune system, digestion, and metabolism. A balanced microbiome supports health, while dysbiosis can lead to disease."
?? Visual Alternative:
?? Why This Works:
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Best Practices for Using Visual Metaphors & Infographics in Biotech Communication
? Keep it high level before diving into details.
? Use universally recognizable symbols.
? Limit visual clutter—clarity is key.
? Align visuals with audience expertise.
Why Analogies & Visuals Are Essential for Biotech Communication
?? Analogies bridge the gap between expertise levels.
?? Infographics & visual metaphors are faster and more engaging than text alone.
?? Tailoring visuals to the audience maximizes impact.
When biotech breakthroughs aren't explained effectively, they fail to gain funding, public support, or regulatory approval—so using strategic analogies and infographics is not just about clarity, but about driving real world impact.
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Show, Don’t Just Tell – Data Storytelling with Visuals
Numbers and raw data alone won’t engage audiences. Use:
Example: Clinical Trial Results
○ "Treatment reduced tumor size by 40% in 80% of patients." ? [Show a bar graph with "Before" and "After" tumor sizes shrinking]
People process visuals 60,000x faster than text, so visual storytelling is essential.
Show, Don’t Just Tell – Data Storytelling with Visuals in Biotech
In biotechnology, data is everything—but raw numbers, charts, and dense research papers often fail to engage non expert audiences. Whether you're presenting to investors, policymakers, executives, or a general audience, how you present your data is just as important as the data itself.
?The Problem:
The Solution: Data Storytelling Instead of just dumping data, numbers, and facts, tell a compelling story using visuals, infographics, and structured narratives to bring the data to life.
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Why Data Storytelling Works Better Than Raw Data
?? People process visuals 60,000x faster than text.
?? Data alone lacks context.
?? Neuroscience shows that stories improve retention.
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How to Build a Strong Data Driven Visual Narrative
A. Start with the Story, Not the Chart
?Biotech Data (Raw): "Our new cancer therapy reduces tumor size in 80% of patients by 30% on average."
Data Storytelling Approach:
? Better Presentation:
TARGET ?Impact: Now, instead of just seeing numbers, the audience feels the improvement.
B. Use Comparative & Benchmarking Visuals
# Best for: Demonstrating why your biotech innovation is better than alternatives.
?Example: New Drug vs. Traditional Drug Efficacy ○ Bad Data Presentation: "Our therapy reduced inflammation markers by 47%."
? Better Data Storytelling with Visuals:
Treatment
Reduction in Inflammation
Standard Drug
18%
New Drug
47% ?
TARGET ?Impact: Seeing a clear improvement (not just a number) makes the data convincing.
C. Make Abstract Biotech Concepts More Tangible
# Best for: Explaining molecular scale or microscopic processes that are hard to imagine.
?Example: CRISPR Gene Editing ○ Bad Explanation (Text Only): "CRISPR Cas9 is an RNA guided endonuclease that introduces double stranded breaks in DNA sequences at targeted loci."
? Better with Data Storytelling & Visuals:
TARGET ?Impact: Instead of trying to visualize molecular level gene editing in their heads, the audience sees it in action.
D. Humanize the Data with Real World Impact
# Best for: Investors, policymakers, and the general public who care about outcomes more than molecular mechanisms.
?Example: Rare Disease Gene Therapy ○ Bad Data Presentation: "Our gene therapy corrects the faulty gene in 92% of patients."
? Better Data Storytelling:
TARGET ?Impact: Now, instead of just reading a percentage, people connect emotionally to the success story.
Types of Visuals That Enhance Data Storytelling in Biotech
How to Tell Better Biotech Stories with Data & Visuals
? Start with the story, not the statistics.
? Use visuals to compare & benchmark performance.
? Translate molecular level science into tangible processes.
? Make data emotionally relevant.
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Personalize the Story – Case Studies & Real World Impact
Data is persuasive, but stories about real people make research memorable.
Example: Personalized Medicine
○ "Targeted therapies are improving precision in oncology treatments." ? "Sarah, a 35 year old mother, was running out of treatment options for her aggressive cancer. Traditional chemotherapy failed. But a new targeted therapy, designed specifically for her genetic mutation, shrank her tumor by 90% in weeks. This is the future of cancer treatment."
By introducing Sarah’s story, the research becomes emotional, personal, and relatable.
Personalize the Story – Case Studies & Real World Impact in Biotech Storytelling
Scientific breakthroughs are only as powerful as the stories that bring them to life. Data, mechanisms, and results are essential, but without a human centered narrative, even the most groundbreaking biotech innovation risks getting lost in a sea of technical jargon.
Personalizing a biotech story through real world case studies, patient stories, and industry impact examples makes research tangible, relevant, and emotionally compelling. It helps investors, policymakers, and even fellow scientists see the practical applications of biotech innovation beyond the lab.
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Why Personalization is Essential in Biotech Storytelling
In fields like finance, technology, and business, people understand concepts through market trends, KPIs, and ROI. In biotechnology, the stakes are different. The best way to prove value is through human impact.
Key reasons personalization is critical in biotech communication:
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How to Structure a Personalized Biotech Case Study
Every case study should follow a structured narrative arc, similar to how compelling business case studies or journalistic reports are written.
领英推荐
A. Introduce the Real World Problem
Instead of immediately discussing technology or mechanisms, start with the problem in relatable terms.
Example: A biotech company developing an RNA based therapy for ALS could begin by telling the story of a patient named Mark—a software engineer who, at 42, was diagnosed with ALS and gradually lost the ability to type, work, and even speak.
This makes the problem immediately relatable and urgent. The audience now cares about the problem before hearing about the solution.
B. Show Why Existing Solutions Fall Short
Highlight the gap in current medical treatments and why there is a need for innovation.
For ALS, existing treatments might only slow progression by a few months but do not reverse nerve damage.
Instead of saying:
Show the real world impact:
This reinforces the urgency of the problem while setting the stage for the biotech innovation to follow.
C. Introduce the Biotech Breakthrough as the Solution
This is where the research, therapy, or medical innovation is introduced.
Continuing the ALS example, you might explain:
To keep this engaging, keep the scientific explanation precise but clear:
D. Show the Real World Impact on a Person, Business, or Market
Numbers are important, but how the solution changes lives is what sticks in people's minds.
Instead of just listing clinical trial success rates, bring the story back to the person affected:
Rather than saying:
Make it personal:
For a business focused audience, personalize through industry impact:
For an investor audience, frame it through scalability:
Where to Use Personalized Biotech Stories for Maximum Impact
A. Investor Pitch Decks & Presentations
B. Regulatory & Policy Submissions
C. Press Releases & Media Outreach
D. Internal Communications & Talent Recruitment
How to Make a Personalized Biotech Story More Effective
?? Use Real Names, Real People, or Real Companies Where Possible
?? Use Data, but Tie It to the Narrative
Example: Instead of:
Say:
?? Use a Timeline for Progression
Example:
This visual progression helps audiences experience the journey rather than just reading a summary.
Why Personalization is Essential in Biotech Communication
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Adapt to Your Audience – Use the Right Level of Complexity
Different audiences require different depths of explanation:
Audience
Best Approach
General Public
-Use analogies, visuals, and simple language.
Investors
-Focus on market impact, scalability, and ROI.
Regulators
-Highlight compliance, safety, and ethics.
Scientists
-Provide detailed mechanisms, methodologies, and data.
A good rule of thumb: if your audience can't explain your research to someone else, it’s too complex.
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Adapt to Your Audience – Use the Right Level of Complexity in Biotech Storytelling
One of the biggest mistakes in biotech communication is assuming that one level of explanation fits all audiences. Biotech innovations are complex, but how you explain them should depend on who you're talking to—whether it's investors, regulators, business executives, policymakers, engineers, or the general public.
Using the right level of complexity ensures that your audience:
Let's break down how to tailor biotech communication for different audiences, with concrete examples.
Why One Size Fits All Communication Fails
A biotech CEO presenting a CRISPR based therapy should explain it differently depending on whether they are speaking to:
If you overcomplicate, your audience disconnects. If you oversimplify, they don’t take your work seriously.
The key is calibrating the right level of detail.
Audience Based Complexity Levels in Biotech Communication
How to Adjust Biotech Messaging for Different Audiences
Let’s take a biotech startup developing a CRISPR based gene therapy and see how it should be explained to different audiences.
A. Investors & Venture Capitalists
?? Complexity Level: Medium (They need depth, but not extreme technical details). ?? Key Focus: Market opportunity, competition, scalability, and financials.
○ Bad Explanation (Too Technical): "Our CRISPR therapy leverages a proprietary Cas9 variant with reduced off target effects, enabling high fidelity DNA repair via homologous recombination."
? Better Explanation (Business Oriented): "We’ve developed a next generation CRISPR therapy that corrects genetic defects more safely and efficiently than existing technologies. With over 300 million people worldwide affected by genetic disorders, our platform has the potential to disrupt the $10 billion gene therapy market. Unlike competitors, our system reduces off target mutations by 90%, making it safer and more viable for FDA approval."
?? Why This Works:
B. Regulators (FDA, EMA, etc.)
?? Complexity Level: High (They need detailed clinical, safety, and regulatory data). ?? Key Focus: Patient safety, trial design, manufacturing standards, and compliance.
○ Bad Explanation (Too Vague): "Our CRISPR therapy is highly effective and has minimal side effects."
? Better Explanation (Regulatory Focused): "Our Phase 2 clinical trials have demonstrated a 72% efficacy rate in correcting the targeted gene mutation, with only mild transient immune responses observed in 5% of patients. Our proprietary Cas9 variant shows a 90% reduction in off target activity, meeting current FDA safety guidelines. We have established GMP compliant manufacturing protocols to ensure consistent, scalable production."
?? Why This Works:
C. Engineers & Technologists
?? Complexity Level: High (They care about how the technology actually works). ?? Key Focus: Mechanism of action, automation, integration with existing systems.
○ Bad Explanation (Too Simple): "Our gene therapy edits DNA to fix mutations."
? Better Explanation (Technical Focused): "Our system utilizes a modified Cas9 enzyme with an engineered PAM sequence to enable more specific DNA targeting. By coupling this with a lipid nanoparticle delivery system, we achieve 90% transfection efficiency in vivo. The platform is designed for modular scalability, allowing for future adaptation to multiple genetic disorders."
?? Why This Works:
D. Business Executives & Industry Leaders
?? Complexity Level: Medium (They want business strategy, not lab data). ?? Key Focus: Market adoption, commercialization, cost effectiveness.
○ Bad Explanation (Too Scientific): "By modifying the genome at precise loci, our therapy facilitates functional protein restoration."
? Better Explanation (Strategic Focused): "Our therapy provides a one time curative solution for genetic disorders, reducing lifetime treatment costs by up to 80%. Compared to traditional therapies, our approach offers faster regulatory approval pathways and lower manufacturing costs, making it a commercially viable alternative for both healthcare providers and insurers."
?? Why This Works:
E. Policymakers & Public Health Officials
?? Complexity Level: Medium to Low (They care about healthcare impact, accessibility, and cost). ?? Key Focus: Public health benefits, affordability, and ethical considerations.
○ Bad Explanation (Too Scientific): "We use a CRISPR mediated HDR mechanism to introduce functional alleles into patient cells."
? Better Explanation (Policy Focused): "This therapy could eliminate the need for lifelong medication for genetic disorders, reducing the burden on healthcare systems. By lowering hospitalizations and long term care costs, it has the potential to save healthcare providers millions annually. It also ensures equitable access through scalable production."
?? Why This Works:
F. General Public & Media
?? Complexity Level: Low (They need engaging, relatable explanations). ?? Key Focus: Real world impact, patient stories, emotional connection.
○ Bad Explanation (Too Technical): "Our therapy corrects single nucleotide mutations using homology directed repair."
? Better Explanation (Impact Focused): "This therapy could give children with genetic disorders a normal life—without daily medication or hospital visits."
?? Why This Works:
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Create Interactive Content & Digital Experiences
With digital marketing and technology, biotech storytelling can go beyond text:
Example: The Broad Institute’s CRISPR explainer video gained millions of views by simplifying the science through animations.
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Create Interactive Content & Digital Experiences in Biotech Marketing & Communication
Traditional biotech communication—scientific papers, press releases, conference presentations—is often static and passive. While these formats are essential, they are not always engaging or accessible, particularly for investors, business executives, policymakers, or the general public.
Why Interactive Content & Digital Experiences Matter in Biotech
Let’s explore how biotech companies, research institutions, and healthcare innovators can leverage interactive content and digital experiences to communicate scientific breakthroughs, commercial opportunities, and healthcare impacts more effectively.
Interactive Data Visualizations – Making Scientific Insights More Engaging
Why It Works:
Raw data from clinical trials, genetic research, or epidemiological studies can be overwhelming and difficult to interpret. Interactive visualizations allow users to explore complex datasets in a more intuitive and engaging way.
Example: Genomics Data Exploration
Instead of publishing a static bar graph showing genetic mutation frequencies, a biotech company could:
Example: Drug Efficacy Comparison
A pharmaceutical startup developing a new cancer therapy could:
Tools to Use:
Virtual & Augmented Reality (VR & AR) – Immersive Biotech Storytelling
Why It Works:
Biotechnology operates at the molecular and cellular level, which is invisible to the naked eye. VR & AR allow users to experience biotech processes up close, whether it's a protein folding animation or a virtual lab tour.
Example: Virtual CRISPR Lab for Investors & Policymakers
Instead of explaining how CRISPR works using PowerPoint slides, a company could:
Example: Augmented Reality for Drug Mechanism Demonstration
A biotech startup developing a new antibody therapy could:
Tools to Use:
Gamification – Making Biotech Learning & Engagement Fun
Why It Works:
Example: CRISPR Gene Editing Game for Public Engagement
Example: Drug Discovery Simulation for Investors
Tools to Use:
Chatbots & Conversational AI – Real Time Biotech Engagement
Why It Works:
Biotech is full of complex FAQs—from clinical trial eligibility to how mRNA vaccines work. A chatbot can:
Example: Biotech Investor Chatbot
Example: Personalized Patient Guidance
Tools to Use:
Interactive Web Experiences – Making Biotech Websites More Engaging
Why It Works:
Example: Interactive Clinical Trial Dashboard
Example: Explorable Explanations for Biotech Breakthroughs
Tools to Use:
Live Webinars & Virtual Roundtables – Interactive Biotech Conversations
Why It Works:
Example: Investor AMA (Ask Me Anything) Webinars
Example: Biotech Policy Roundtables
Tools to Use:
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End with a Call to Action (CTA)
A strong ?leaves an impact. Guide the audience toward next steps:
Example CTA:
"Scientific breakthroughs are only valuable when shared. Let’s make science accessible to all. Follow us for more biotech innovations!"
8. End with a Call to Action (CTA) – Driving Engagement & Action in Biotech Communication
A Call to Action (CTA) is the final, most crucial part of any biotech communication—whether it's a presentation, investor pitch, press release, website, or social media post. Without a clear next step, even the most compelling biotech story can fall flat.
A strong CTA transforms passive readers into active participants—investors write checks, policymakers push for approval, scientists collaborate, and patients engage with new treatments.
This section explores how to design the most effective CTA for different biotech audiences, ensuring that your message drives real world action.
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Why a Call to Action (CTA) is Critical in Biotech Communication
?? Biotech is complex and requires engagement beyond a single interaction.
?? Many biotech pitches & presentations fail because they don’t ask for action.
?? A clear CTA makes your biotech message more actionable & memorable.
Types of CTAs for Different Biotech Audiences
Not all CTAs are the same. The right CTA depends on who you're talking to and what action you want them to take.
CTA for Investors: Convert Interest into Funding
# Goal: Move investors toward funding discussions, due diligence, or partnership meetings.
○ Weak CTA: "Let us know if you're interested." (Too vague)
? Strong CTA: "We are currently raising a $50M Series B round, with $35M already committed. Let’s schedule a call next week to discuss how you can participate."
?? Why It Works:
CTA for Policymakers & Regulatory Agencies: Encourage Support for Approval
# Goal: Drive action toward policy support, regulatory discussions, or fast track approval.
○ Weak CTA: "This technology could transform healthcare policy." (Too general)
? Strong CTA: "We are seeking regulatory alignment on accelerated approval pathways. We’d like to schedule a meeting to present our clinical trial data to your team."
?? Why It Works:
CTA for Business Executives & Industry Partners: Drive Commercialization Discussions
# Goal: Encourage licensing deals, partnerships, or distribution agreements.
○ Weak CTA: "We’d love to explore potential collaboration opportunities."
? Strong CTA: "Let’s set up a meeting to discuss how our gene therapy platform could be integrated into your rare disease pipeline. We can provide technical data and early market access insights."
?? Why It Works:
CTA for Scientists & Researchers: Initiate Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing
# Goal: Motivate researchers to engage in collaboration, publish papers, or share expertise.
○ Weak CTA: "We are open to collaboration in gene editing research."
? Strong CTA: "We are hosting a closed door symposium on next gen gene editing. If you're interested in joining our research consortium, apply by March 15."
?? Why It Works:
CTA for Patients & Public: Encourage Awareness & Participation
# Goal: Drive patients or the public toward clinical trial enrollment, awareness campaigns, or advocacy efforts.
○ Weak CTA: "Gene therapy is changing lives."
? Strong CTA: "If you or a loved one has [specific genetic disorder], sign up to receive updates on our upcoming clinical trial for early access to treatment."
?? Why It Works:
CTA Placement – Where & How to Use Them Effectively
A great CTA won’t work if it’s buried in dense text or added as an afterthought. Here’s where to place CTAs for maximum impact:
A. Biotech Pitch Decks & Investor Presentations
B. Website & Digital Campaigns
C. Email & Social Media
CTA Psychology – How to Make People Take Action
A strong CTA doesn’t just tell people what to do—it motivates them to act. Here’s how:
Final Takeaways: How to End with a Strong CTA in Biotech
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Conclusion
In an era where attention is fragmented and information is everywhere, the ability to communicate science effectively is more critical than ever. The biotech industry thrives on groundbreaking discoveries, but if those breakthroughs are locked behind technical jargon or presented without clarity and context, they risk being overlooked, underfunded, or misunderstood.
Scientific innovation is not just about pushing the boundaries of knowledge. It is about ensuring that knowledge reaches the right people in a way that is compelling, understandable, and actionable. Whether you are presenting to investors, policymakers, healthcare professionals, or the public, the goal remains the same: to make complex ideas accessible without losing their depth.
By using storytelling techniques such as starting with the why, structuring narratives with the ABT formula, incorporating analogies and metaphors, leveraging visual storytelling, and ending with a strong call to action, biotech professionals can transform dense scientific material into engaging, persuasive, and memorable communication.
The best science isn’t just discovered. It is shared, understood, and acted upon. The difference between a promising technology that secures funding and one that fades into obscurity often comes down to how well its story is told. A well-crafted narrative can influence policy, attract investment, inspire collaboration, and ultimately, bring life-changing scientific advancements to those who need them most.
Final Thought:
If Einstein could explain relativity to a child, then we can certainly make biotech innovations accessible to the world. Science storytelling isn’t just a skill. It is a responsibility. Master it, and your research won’t just be heard. It will shape the future.
Clinical Research Professional| Biotechnology professional| Scientific writer| Science Educator| IMRF Young Scientist Award| C V Jacob Award Society of Biotechnologists|
3 周It's a reminder that effective science communication is just as crucial as the science itself.?An additional point, I'd add is the importance of emotionally connecting with your audience. This makes the research not just something to understand, but something people care about. Thanks for sharing Luke McLaughlin
Innovation Projects Coach, Mentor & Consultant
3 周Thanks Luke McLaughlin ! As always !