Mentor: Shaun Kirby, University of Rhode Island

Project Location

University of Rhode Island-Kingston

Project Description

Although scientists themselves often take on the role of communicating research, there remains a need for individuals from other professions, namely journalism and education, to know how to effectively communicate science through media and techniques not prioritized within academia.

RI C-AIM encompasses interdisciplinary research among undergraduates, graduate students and faculty members across eight different higher education institutions. From development of nano-sensors to detect nutrients in Narragansett Bay to creating computer models that predict future changes in fish populations, the scope of RI C-AIM research is broad in order to answer scientific questions regarding climate change in the Ocean State. There is thus a critical need to communicate this research in narrative ways to multiple audiences that hold a social, cultural and/or economic stake in the health of Narragansett Bay.

The selected SURF student will identify a key RI C-AIM research topic and develop an engaging communication project that can effectively convey its science and current or potential impact on target stakeholders. For example, a student may want to create a podcast series geared towards high school students or a long-form journalistic piece incorporating compelling images and video. The student will learn about best practices in science communication, including the need to consider diverse populations and how to develop materials that inclusively and equitably represent R C-AIM research.

Additional Information

• RI C-AIM’s annual magazine, The Current