Most Americans can't name a living scientist.
We want to change that.
The Problem
Despite living in the dawn of the "information age" our trust in science is declining. In a 2009 survey, 85% of Americans could not successfully name a living scientist even though there are more than a million living scientists in the United States. We believe that scientists need to work harder to be visible in their communities in order to rebuild this trust and we want to help!
The Solution
Scientists are getting better at educational outreach and that is wonderful. However, scientists are not as effective when it comes to engaging in the community outside of their expertise. We believe that both scientists and the community at large gain tremendous benefits when they collaborate outside the lab and we want to help facilitate that engagement.
I'm a scientist. How can I help?
Scientists, engineers, technicians, and mathematicians have many skills that can be just as useful outside the lab. In order to increase the visibility of scientists in the community, we would like to encourage you to participate in community service using your special skills however you please! By participating in community service, you can increase the visibility of scientists in a meaningful and lasting way. Not only can you take pride in doing a job that needs to be done, you can increase the numbers of people who can honestly say they know an actual living scientist. Here are some ideas for professional development while you help your community:
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Leadership - your STEM training, problem-solving, and organizational abilities make you a natural leader. Step up to lead an effort that fills some sort of need in your community. Encourage your STEM friends and your non-STEM friends to join you.
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Volunteer your technical skills - your communication skills, coding skills, biology know-how, and/or any other assets you have can be used for good. Pad your resume with a fulfilling side project and find a new and fun way to network.
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Volunteer your passion - we all have extracurricular hobbies and hopefully they don't all involve pipetting. Help out with a local food bank or clothing drive, join a community garden, welcome refugee families, build a house, clean up waterways and roadways - the possibilities are endless. A day spent outside of the lab can be an eye-opener and give you a refreshing break from the benchside. And, of course, a platform to engage with members of your community.
That sounds great! How do I get started?
That's where we come in! We have lots of opportunities for you no matter what your abilities or your passions. Check out our Local Events pages to find service opportunities near you! Have an idea for a service project that isn't on the list? Contact us and we will help you recruit volunteers!