Post by University of Glasgow

Can academics learn stand-up comedy? We partnered with The Stand Glasgow to find out. 🎤 ‘The Provocateurs’ invites academics to discuss research in a comedy club setting, using the unique power of stand-up comedy to engage audiences in new ways. The first show on 2 April 2026 saw four brave academics take to the stage, covering topics as diverse as palliative care, microfluidics, queer theatre and cultural policy evaluation. ‘The Provocateurs’ is a training and public engagement project like no other. Workshops ahead of the final show were designed to enhance presentation skills, build confidence and manage nerves. The team behind the initiative provided strategies and advice to help participants communicate complex ideas with clarity and humour.  The informal, welcoming environment of a comedy club creates a space for dialogue around topics that may be poorly known, misunderstood or difficult to talk about.  ‘The Provocateurs Glasgow’ was led by Public & Community Engagement Manager Zara Gladman, Researcher Development Specialists Emma Waters and Maleeha Rizwan, Chartered MCIPD and comedian Susan Morrison. Zach Owen | Micaela Levesque | Stephen Greer | Bridget Johnston FRCN |

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