SciComm Hotline

Based in the United States, SciComm Hotline operates at the intersection of academic research and practical public relations. While the agency does not have a single physical headquarters address listed, its founders, Reyhaneh Maktoufi and Stephanie Castillo, bring a distinctly research-backed approach to science communication that sets them apart in the crowded PR landscape. The agency's work is deeply informed by ongoing communication research, making it a unique resource for scientists and content creators who want more than just a standard press release.

A Research-Backed Approach to Storytelling

SciComm Hotline does not offer traditional PR services in the conventional sense. Instead, the agency focuses on science communication strategy, drawing directly from the founders' academic backgrounds as science communication researchers and practitioners. Their core offering is helping scientists and science content creators think through their entire communication strategy to effectively reach target audiences. This involves brand storytelling that is grounded in evidence, not guesswork. The agency's methodology is built on communication research, ensuring that every recommendation—from content strategy to campaign structure—is informed by what actually works in practice. SciComm Hotline also provides scicomm training and communication workshops, equipping clients with the tools to craft compelling narratives without relying on jargon or hype.

Services and Specialties

While SciComm Hotline's specific service menu is not exhaustive, its public content and stated mission suggest a range of capabilities that align with modern science communication needs. Based on their focus on storytelling, research, and training, likely services include:

• Science communication workshops and training (scicomm practice)
• Brand storytelling and content strategy development
• Communication research and audience analysis
• Podcast production and editorial strategy (via their own podcast)
• Newsletter and article writing for science campaigns
• Strategic consulting for scientists and content creators
• Campaign analysis and trend evaluation in science media

These services are delivered through a blend of written content, audio storytelling, and direct consultation. The agency's own monthly newsletter and podcast serve as living examples of their approach, breaking down campaign strategies, critiquing trends, and offering unfiltered insights into how science is communicated in real life. This content also functions as a portfolio, demonstrating their ability to engage audiences with both humor and rigor.

Who They Serve and Their Unique Positioning

SciComm Hotline is best suited for individual scientists, research institutions, and science content creators who want to move beyond basic press releases and into strategic, audience-centered communication. The agency's work is particularly valuable for those who feel misunderstood or misrepresented by traditional media, or who want to build a direct connection with the public. By relying on communication research rather than intuition, SciComm Hotline helps clients avoid common pitfalls like overhyping findings or using inaccessible language. The agency's tone is conversational and even gossipy at times, as evidenced by their podcast where they "ethically hate on trends" and share unfiltered thoughts. This approach makes them a good fit for clients who appreciate transparency and a bit of personality in their PR partnerships.

For anyone looking to improve their scicomm practice, whether through workshops, one-on-one strategy sessions, or simply by consuming their insightful content, SciComm Hotline offers a refreshingly grounded alternative to traditional PR agencies. Their reliance on communication research and brand storytelling ensures that every piece of advice is both practical and evidence-based.