Gabriele Strobel

Research Communications, Software GmbH

Position, Company

I studied information science and then worked in marketing and corporate communications at Software GmbH. I later moved to the research department at Software GmbH. Today I am responsible for the communication of publicly funded research projects. My focus is on preparing complex research results for specific target groups and communicating them in an understandable way via channels such as the press, social media and trade fairs. I am particularly enthusiastic about storytelling - transforming abstract topics into exciting and tangible stories to promote the exchange and understanding of scientific innovations.

Overview of the Job

I am responsible for the communication of publicly funded research projects at Software AG. My work focuses on translating complex research findings into engaging and accessible content for different target audiences. Using channels like press, social media, and events, I help make technical innovations in software and digital transformation understandable and impactful. In addition to my communication work, I have also conducted research in several projects on communication strategies and their effectiveness. With a background in information science and experience in marketing and corporate communications, I specialize in storytelling to bridge the gap between research, industry, and the public. My role contributes to STEM by making scientific and technological advancements more visible and accessible, fostering collaboration and innovation.

What Inspired You

I was inspired by my passion for storytelling and the ability of communication to make complex topics accessible to different audiences. Throughout my career in information science, marketing, and corporate communications, I have seen how scientific and technological innovations can feel distant or abstract. I wanted to change that by crafting narratives that not only explain research but also engage specific target groups—whether policymakers, industry experts, or the public. The challenge of tailoring messages to different audiences and making research truly impactful motivates me every day. My goal is to create stories that inspire understanding, collaboration, and real-world innovation

Typical Working Day

My typical workday revolves around making complex research topics accessible and engaging for different audiences. I start by reviewing scientific information and news from our research projects to gather content for LinkedIn posts. I conduct interviews with experts and turn their insights into compelling articles. I also write press releases to announce the launch or completion of research projects, ensuring they gain visibility in the media. Editing videos from events is another part of my job, preparing them for publication on websites and social media. Additionally, I work on designing a new website for a research project to effectively present its goals and findings. Another key task is organizing the trade fair presence of a research project or our research department, helping to showcase our innovations to a broader audience.What does your typical working day look like?

Study & Career Path

I studied Information Science with a minor in Political Science, and I would choose this path again without hesitation. I have always been fascinated by media and how engaging stories can effectively reach specific target audiences. This interest naturally led me to a career in research communication, where I translate complex scientific topics into accessible and compelling narratives. The IT sector, with its rapid innovation cycles, constantly provides exciting new content, making my job both dynamic and inspiring. Continuous learning has always been important to me, especially through seminars on new tools like video editing and web design. While my colleagues come from diverse backgrounds, many share a similar passion for communication, technology, and making research more accessible to the public.

Key Skills

Research – I analyze scientific information and industry trends to translate complex topics into engaging content. And I am researching a number of projects on the subject of “communication”
Business Storytelling – I craft compelling narratives that make research findings accessible and relevant to different target audiences.
Collaboration – I work closely with researchers, designers, and marketing teams to ensure effective communication of research projects.
Editing – I refine articles, press releases, and video content to ensure clarity, accuracy, and engagement.
Social Skills – I build relationships with experts and stakeholders to gather insights and communicate research effectively.
Writing – I create content such as press releases, articles, and social media posts to highlight key research achievements.
Video Production – I edit event recordings and expert interviews for use on websites and social media.
Content Marketing – I develop strategic content that increases visibility and engagement for research projects.
Corporate Communications – I align research communication with company goals and branding strategies.
Public Relations – I write and distribute press releases to generate media coverage for research projects.
Social Media – I manage posts and campaigns to share research insights and engage with online audiences.
Creativity – I develop innovative communication formats to make complex topics more engaging.
Curiosity – I constantly explore new trends and tools to improve research communication.
Flexibility – I adapt quickly to new projects, changing priorities, and emerging technologies.
Initiative – I proactively seek out new ways to present and promote research findings.
Motivation – I am passionate about making scientific and technological advancements understandable and inspiring.

Career Prospect

Research & Innovation Communication – Communicating complex scientific findings for universities, research institutions, and tech companies.
Corporate Communications & Public Relations – Managing external and internal communication for businesses, especially in the technology and IT sectors.
Marketing & Content Strategy – Developing content strategies, social media campaigns, and multimedia storytelling for companies and agencies.
Science Journalism & Media – Writing articles, creating videos, and producing content for science magazines, online platforms, and broadcasting.
Consulting & Training – Advising organizations on effective communication strategies and providing training in digital tools and storytelling.
Event & Trade Fair Management – Organizing conferences, exhibitions, and trade fair appearances for research-driven companies and institutions.
These skills are highly transferable, allowing me to work in both the private and public sectors, from startups to multinational corporations and non-profit organizations.

Challenges

Some of the main challenges in my job are:

Constantly learning about new topics – As I work on various research projects, I constantly need to dive into different and often complex subjects. This requires quick comprehension and the ability to understand and communicate relevant content efficiently.
Adapting to new communication tools – The communication industry evolves rapidly, with new tools and technologies emerging all the time. Staying up to date and integrating these tools into my daily workflow can be a challenge, but it’s essential for creating impactful content.
Diversity of projects – Each research project has different focuses and target audiences. It requires flexibility and creativity to effectively communicate each project’s message while ensuring that the content remains clear and engaging.

These challenges make my job exciting, as they require constant learning and adaptation, while also offering the opportunity to explore new approaches in communication.

Your Advice to Students

My advice to students is to stay curious and open to continuous learning. The fields of communication, technology, and research are constantly evolving, so being adaptable and eager to explore new tools and trends is essential. Gaining practical experience—through internships, projects, or personal initiatives—will help you develop key skills and build a strong professional network. Networking is just as important as knowledge—connecting with professionals, attending industry events, and engaging in online communities can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, ask questions, and experiment with different forms of communication, whether it’s writing, video production, or digital storytelling. Most importantly, find a topic or industry that excites you—passion and enthusiasm will always make your work more fulfilling and impactful.

Your Advice to Teachers and Parents

Exposure to real-world experiences is key: inviting professionals for guest talks, organizing visits to companies and research institutions, or encouraging participation in internships can give students valuable insights into career paths. Additionally, fostering a growth mindset—where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities—can build confidence and resilience. Most importantly, teachers and parents should emphasize the importance of networking and collaboration, encouraging students to connect with mentors and peers who can inspire and guide them in their journey.