The workshop on “Mastering Scientific Writing in Biology” aims to provide a comprehensive understanding and practical guidance to researchers, scientists, and academics navigating the complex landscape of publishing in the field of biology. The workshop will focus on equipping participants with the necessary tools, insights, and strategies to master scientific writing, avoid predatory publishing practices, and recognize common pitfalls encountered in the publication journey.
In an age where the dissemination of scientific knowledge is essential, researchers often face challenges in effectively communicating their work. This workshop will cover a spectrum of topics, including structuring manuscripts, crafting compelling abstracts, and adopting clear and concise scientific writing styles to ensure effective communication of biological research.
Furthermore, the workshop will shed light on the issue of predatory practices in academic publishing, empowering participants to discern reputable journals from predatory ones. Attendees will learn how to identify red flags, evaluate journal credibility, and safeguard their research from falling victim to unethical publication practices.
Moreover, the workshop will highlight common pitfalls researchers encounter during the publication process, including but not limited to issues related to authorship, ethical considerations, peer review, and intellectual property. Practical insights and case studies will be shared to help participants navigate these challenges effectively.
The workshop will be an interactive forum, featuring engaging sessions led by accomplished experts in biological research and scientific publication. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in discussions, ask questions, and engage in hands-on exercises to refine their scientific writing skills and enhance their understanding of the publication process.
Ultimately, this workshop aspires to empower participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to master the art of scientific writing in biology, successfully navigate the publication journey, and protect their research from predatory practices, ensuring the integrity and impact of their scientific contributions.
Understanding a workshop involves several steps that participants must follow to maximize their understanding, engagement and learning. For us, we will present clear pedagogical objectives to clarify for learners what we want to achieve at the end of the workshop, we will solicit active participation in the sessions, asking questions and engaging participants in discussions and activities. We also interact with participants to exchange ideas, experiences and views on the themes and their daily practices.
– Beneficiaries: Young Cameroonian and early career researchers especially graduate students (Biochemist, Medical Doctor, Pharmacist, Microbiologist, and Biologist).
– Duration: 5 days including theoretical and practical workshop.
Workshop program
Day |
Time |
Activities |
Speaker |
Duration |
DAY 1
Welcoming and Foundations of Scientific Writing |
08h00- 08h30 |
Registration |
Workshop secretariat |
30 min |
08h30- 09h00 |
Coffee break |
|
30 min |
|
09H00-09H15 |
Welcoming word |
|
15 min |
|
09h15- 09h 30 |
Presentation of participants and facilitator |
|
15 min |
|
09h30- 09h 45 |
Opening quiz |
|
15 min |
|
09h45- 12h45 |
Introduction to Scientific Writing |
Dr Maryline Bonnet (University of Montpellier) |
2h |
|
12H45- 13H00 |
Break |
|
|
|
13h00- 14h45 |
Structure of a Research Paper in biology field · Discussing the various sections of a research paper (abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, references) |
Pr Mbacham Wilfred (University of yaounde) |
1h 45min |
|
14h45 – 15h00 |
Coffee break |
|
15 min |
|
15h-17h00 |
Practical exercise: Crafting a well-structured abstract |
Olivia Tsague-Chiozem (PAMJ) |
|
|
DAY 2
Writing Styles and Techniques |
08h00- 08h30 |
Coffee |
|
30 min |
08H30-09H00 |
Previous day briefing |
|
30 min |
|
09h00- 12h00 |
Academic Writing Styles |
Pr Mbacham Wilfred (University of yaounde) |
2h |
|
12H45- 13H00 |
Break |
|
45 min |
|
13h00- 16h00 |
Enhancing Clarity and Coherence · Understanding the importance of coherence in scientific writing |
Dr Maryline Bonnet (University of Montpellier) |
3h |
|
DAY 3 Navigating the Publication Journey |
08h00- 08h30 |
Coffee |
|
30 min |
08H30-09H00 |
Previous day briefing |
|
30 min |
|
09h00- 12h00 |
Choosing the Right Journal · Understanding journal selection criteria and impact factors · Strategies for finding the most suitable journal for your research |
Dr Gino Agbota (University of Montpellier)
|
3h |
|
12H45- 13H00 |
Break |
|
|
|
13h00- 16h00 |
Manuscript Submission and Peer Review Process |
Olivia Tsague-Chiozem (PAMJ) |
3h |
|
DAY 4
Combatting Predatory Practices |
08h00- 08h30 |
Coffee |
|
30 min |
08H30-09H00 |
Previous day briefing |
|
30 min |
|
09h00- 12h00 |
Identifying Predatory Journals and Conferences |
Olivia Tsague-Chiozem (PAMJ) |
3h |
|
12H45- 13H00 |
Break |
|
45min |
|
13h00- 16h00 |
Ethical Considerations in Publishing |
Emmanuelle Njankou (PAMJ) |
3h |
|
DAY 5
Pitfalls and Advanced Techniques |
08h00- 08h30 |
Coffee |
|
30 min |
08H30-09H00 |
Previous day briefing |
|
30 min |
|
09h00- 12h00 |
Common Pitfalls in Scientific Writing · Exploring common mistakes and challenges in scientific writing |
Olivia Tsague-Chiozem (PAMJ) |
2h |
|
12H45- 13H00 |
Break |
|
1h |
|
13h00- 16h00 |
Advanced Techniques and Q&A Panel · Advanced strategies for impactful scientific writing · Interactive Q&A session with experienced authors and journal editors |
Emmanuelle Njankou (PAMJ) |
3h |
|
|
16h00-17h00 |
Closing ceremony and award of certificates |
|
1h |