The new Science and Academic Building at the University of Lethbridge is built around the idea of science on display. For scientists, one of the most important tasks is to communicate the work they do to the public; highlighting the necessity of research without overwhelming non-specialists with cumbersome details. This aspect of science education is often neglected, however, it is critical for scientists to obtain these skills.
WHAT: Dr. Kevin Folta will present two talks at the University of Lethbridge
WHEN:
Thursday, July 25 at 2 p.m. – Manipulating Biology with Artificial Light Environments and Random DNA Sequences
Friday, July 26 at 1 p.m. – Rethinking Science Communication – New Rules for Scientists
WHERE: C610, University of Lethbridge
About Dr. Kevin Folta
Dr. Kevin Folta is a professor and the chairman of the horticultural sciences department at the University of Florida. He received his PhD in Molecular Biology from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and has received recognition for his excellent science and teaching (e.g. National Science Foundation Young Faculty CAREER Award, 2008, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute Distinguished Mentor of Undergraduate Research, 2007). Folta has honed his communication skills, being involved in debate teams throughout his academic education, and now uses his experience to help teach science communication techniques to others.
Nature Biotechnology described Folta as “a gifted communicator—one of the rare scientists who has engaged the public, with over 12 years of experience. Not someone who merely discusses public engagement; but someone who actually communicates directly with non-expert audiences—at science fairs, in schools, at retirement homes, in blogs and podcasts.”
Folta is visiting the u of L to serve as the external examiner for the MSc defence of Justin Vigar, from the lab of Dr. Hans-Joachim Wieden.
"Dr. Folta’s work in science education is extremely inspiring. We’re very excited to learn from him and see how our science communication skills will improve in doing so," says Vigar.
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Contact:
Trevor Kenney, News & Information Manager
403-329-2710
403-360-7639 (cell)
trevor.kenney@uleth.ca
@ULethbridgeNews
