What’s the Story?

Undergraduates across Rhode Island develop engaging narratives to communicate scientific research

Communicating broad, climate-focused research in Rhode Island is critical for informing communities that hold a social, cultural and/or economic stake in the health of the state’s ecosystems. Through this yearly project, Summer Undergraduate Research Fellows “cover” the research projects of their peers, learning to disseminate complex scientific information and develop narrative stories for non-expert readers through journalistic practice.

Ellen, a blonde haired student, stares intently at her laptop screen

Ellen Fritz

RISD undergraduate Ellen Fritz explores her passion for understanding ecosystems through art by covering projects on augmented reality, salt marsh microbes.

2024 SURF

Sydney Barnett

Bryant’s Sydney Barnett takes her love of science and experiences from Save the Bay to learn about how peers are studying Narragansett Bay.

2024 SURF

Deelia Wang

RISD student Deelia Wang joins background in graphic design with journalistic storytelling for her summer science communication experience.

2022 SURF

Ciara French

University of Rhode Island undergraduate Ciara French dives into the world of marine science and engineering to highlight the experiences of her peers.

2021 SURF

To request additional planning materials that supported the inception of these projects, email RI NSF EPSCoR Communications & Outreach Coordinator Shaun Kirby at skirby@uri.edu.