Creating Communication and Media Research Labs

This book offers a practical guide for creating, funding, and growing a communication or media research lab. Drawing on the insights of experienced lab directors, it covers essential steps—from defining a mission and securing space to navigating funding and fostering a collaborative, inclusive culture that supports innovation.

The book is divided into two sections. Section 1 explores reasons for starting a lab, introduces the design thinking process, and presents 10 practical tips from the editors based on their own experience. Section 2 features detailed case studies and advice from lab directors at a range of institutions—from small liberal arts colleges to large state universities. These chapters highlight the challenges and successes of launching and sustaining labs in different contexts.

Through real-world examples, readers will discover strategies for building lab culture, mentoring diverse teams, promoting equity and inclusion, and aligning efforts with institutional goals. The book emphasizes clear communication, shared purpose, and mutual respect as cornerstones of research excellence.

Chad Edwards, Ph.D. (University of Kansas) is a Professor of Communication at Western Michigan University and a Theodore von Kármán Fellow at RWTH Aachen University-Germany. He has published widely in journals such as Human-Machine Communication, Computers in Human Behavior, and Communication Education.

Autumn Edwards, Ph.D. (Ohio University) is a Professor of Communication at Western Michigan University and a Theodore von Kármán Fellow at RWTH Aachen University-Germany. She has authored over 80 articles and chapters, and co-edited Communication is… Perspectives on Theory. Her other books include The Communication Age and the DeGruyter Handbook of Robots in Society and Culture.

Patric R. Spence, Ph.D. (Wayne State University) is a Professor at the University of Central Florida. He researches crisis communication and social robotics. He has authored over 100 research articles and five textbooks and is a former editor of Communication Studies.