What We Do

years of connecting Canada with Science

Our Mission

The Royal Canadian Institute for Science (RCIScience) envisions an engaging science culture for everyone in Canada, valuing scientific knowledge and integrity, and leading to a better society.

Celebrating its 175th anniversary, RCIScience is Canada’s oldest scientific organization, established in Toronto in 1849 by an enthusiastic group of engineers, surveyors and entrepreneurs, led by Sir Sandford Fleming (inventor of standard time).

Today a registered charity, RCIScience’s award-winning programming builds science culture in Canada, providing a platform for public engagement with scientists to foster critical thinking, expand science dialogue and promote informed decision making.

Supporting Science Communication
across Canada

Science communicators and knowledge translators play a vital role in bridging the gap between research and society—but too often, they work in silos. Canada deserves a connected science communication ecosystem where expertise, resources, and ideas can flow freely across disciplines and sectors. By fostering collaboration, skill-building, and community, RCIScience is helping to break down barriers, amplify diverse voices, and strengthen the impact of science communication nationwide. Together, we can create a more informed, engaged, and science-literate society.

Level up your science communication or knowledge mobilization skills through our expert-led trainings – empowering you to share science with clarity and impact.

  • Bespoke training for groups and individuals looking to upskill in the areas of knowledge mobilization, science communication, and public engagement.

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  • Our SciComm Foundations digital learning course provides an overview of science communication best practices for those short on resources.

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  • Our incubator is bringing the next big ideas in science communication to life.

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Collaboration and knowledge exchange are critical to building a new culture of science. Find like-minded communicators and science engagers across Canada – and beyond.

  • Become a Member of RCIScience today and join a growing national and international community of professional and aspiring science communicators.

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  • Join the GTHA’s premiere network of practicing and aspiring science communicators.

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  • An international community of leading science engagers with an annual science engagement pitch competition.

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RCIScience recognizes excellence in promoting the public’s understanding of science by individuals and organizations.

  • Recognizing excellence in promoting the public understanding of science by a Canadian individual.

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  • Recognizes excellence in promoting the public understanding of science by a Canadian organization.

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  • A one-time opportunity to celebrate some of Canada’s leaders in STEMM engagement.

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“RCIScience is willing to take chances on engaging with people in new ways and broadening the tent so that more people feel like they are part of science culture.”

— Anthony Morgan, host of CBC’s The Nature of Things

Join our Mission

Our programs are funded through contributions and sponsorships from universities, corporations, foundations and individuals who believe in our vision.

  • Collaborate

    We’re always on the lookout for link-minded organizations and individuals interested in elevating science culture in Canada. Let’s connect.

  • Sponsor

    Showcase your brand or organization as a leader in science. Your sponsorship fuels dynamic public events and innovative science communication.

  • Donate

    Your gift is more critical than ever. Help champion science, spark curiosity, and bring trusted, evidence-based knowledge to the public.

  • Volunteer

    Join our growing volunteer community, hone your skills and support a mission that first began in 1849. Check out what volunteer positions are open today.

Award-Winning Programming

RCIScience engages diverse communities with science like you’ve never experienced before. Hosting a variety of inclusive flagship and partner events in-person and online, as well as sharing down right fascinating educational content on social media and our blog, we cover a wide spectrum of scientific disciplines. From panel discussions and film screenings, cocktail-making workshops and cooking demonstrations, to nature walks and photography tips, we’ve got something for everyone.

Visit What’s On to explore our upcoming science events, pop by The Blog for tutorials and interviews on the latest issues in science, or check out our RCITalks archive, covering everything from microbiology and cosmology to psychology and aerospace engineering!

2022 Falling Walls Science Breakthrough of the Year -  Special Award for Inclusive Science Engagement.png
2022 Natural Sciences and Engineering  Research Council of Canada Award for Science Promotion.png

“You people make science fun!”

— Event Attendee