💡 How can curiosity and resilience transform barriers in STEM into pathways for the next generation of scientists?
In this episode of Science with Impact, we are joined by Dr. Stephanie Pazos, Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and Co-Owner & Chief Scientist at Heroica Technologies.
Dr. Pazos shares how persistence, mentorship, and inclusive teaching helped shape her path. She reflects on the moment organic chemistry unlocked her identity as a scientist, the barriers students face in higher education, and why failure is one of the most powerful teachers.
🤔 Who is this for?
Undergraduate educators seeking new ways to design courses that foster independence, reflection, and real research skills.
Early-career scientists navigating impostor syndrome, career uncertainty, or the challenge of balancing teaching, research, and personal growth.
STEM leaders & mentors interested in breaking down barriers, supporting diverse pathways, and preparing students for careers inside and outside academia.
📋 What is it about?
Dr. Pazos reflects on the power of curiosity, the importance of designing inclusive teaching models, and the challenges of mentoring in a post-COVID landscape. From founding a photonics company to reshaping undergraduate labs at UCSB, she offers practical lessons for how scientists and educators can dismantle barriers, foster resilience, and build inclusive communities of learning.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Science is not a straight path—it’s built on curiosity, failures, and resilience. By embracing inclusive teaching, mentorship, and professional development, researchers can create more equitable pathways into STEM and empower the next generation to thrive.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey
00:54 Welcome to the Podcast
01:07 Guest Introduction: Dr. Stephanie Pazos
02:49 Discovering a Passion for Science
05:25 Challenges and Inspirations
08:55 Innovative Teaching Methods
17:19 Graduate Student Support and Development
23:15 Entrepreneurship and Career Transitions
25:16 Future Guest and Closing Remarks
📣 Guests
Stephanie Pazos, Ph.D. — Assistant Teaching Professor of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara; Chief Scientist and Co-Owner, Heroica Technologies
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
❤️ Love the cause?
Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
🙌🏽 Enjoying the content?
Here are 3 things you can do to help other research scientists see this content:
Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
💡 How can mentorship, collaboration, and balance shape not just scientific careers, but whole communities of future researchers?
IIn this behind-the-scenes conversation, host Dr. Vanessa Rosa sits down with two key members of the Science with Impact Podcast team, —Yasmina Demaj, Strategic Science Communicator, and Rafael Fernanz , Video Producer—to explore how and why the team approaches science communication differently.
From designing audience-first messaging to helping researchers feel comfortable on camera, this episode breaks down how the team measures societal change through the SDD framework—Scale, Depth, Duration—and why clarity, trust, and connection are more valuable than views or prestige.
🤔 Who is this for?
📋 What is it about?
Together the Science with Impact Team unpacks what it really takes to communicate science with clarity and purpose—from writing for impact to producing engaging, trust-centered videos. The conversation dives into how their team supports researchers in sharing stories that move beyond prestige metrics and toward long-term, measurable change.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Impactful science communication starts with intention. By grounding your message in real-world relevance—and designing with your audience in mind—you can create clarity, trust, and connection that last far beyond the screen.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction to the Team
00:12 The Shift from Prestige to Purpose
01:13 Behind the Scenes: Meet the Team
02:32 Personal Journeys into Science Communication
03:45 The Role of Science in Our Lives
05:50 Visual Storytelling in Science
08:17 Simplifying Science for the Public
12:31 The SDD Framework for Measuring Impact
18:30 Challenges in Measuring Human Change
28:21 The Future of Science Communication
34:18 Podcast Goals and Aspirations
📣 Guests
Rafael Fernanz — Award-Winning Director and Video Producer; Founder of Cinematic Memories
Yasmina Demaj — Strategic Science Communicator, STEM Equity Researcher
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
❤️ Love the cause?
Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
🙌🏽 Enjoying the content?
Here are 3 things you can do to help other research scientists see this content:
Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
💡 How can mentorship, collaboration, and balance shape not just scientific careers, but whole communities of future researchers?
In this episode of the Science with Impact Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Valeria De La Rosa-Reyes, a Puerto Rican anatomist, professor, and neuroscientist researcher at the University of Puerto Rico–Bayamón.
From her early curiosity on her grandmother’s farm to leading her own lab, Dr. Valeria shares how mentorship, resilience, and joy have guided her journey in STEM. She reflects on why good collaborators are essential in the first years of a career, how undergraduates can take ownership of real research, and why balance and authenticity matter just as much as publications.
🤔 Who is this for?
Graduate and early-career scientists navigating the pressures of funding, collaboration, and building a sustainable career.
Undergraduate educators and mentors who want practical ways to bring research into the classroom and spark curiosity.
Scientists committed to broader impacts—those interested in how mentorship, collaboration, and joy can shape resilient research communities.
📋 What is it about?
Dr. Valeria De La Rosa-Reyes shares how resilience, mentorship, and joy have shaped her path as a scientist and educator. She reflects on the power of early research experiences, the value of supportive collaborators, and the responsibility of fostering the next generation of scientists.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Science isn’t just about experiments, it’s about people. By prioritizing mentorship, balance, and collaboration, we can create labs and classrooms where curiosity thrives, undergraduates grow into confident scientists, and research connects meaningfully to society.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction and Importance of Good Collaborators
00:49 Welcome to the Podcast
01:05 Meet Dr. Valeria
02:47 Dr. Valeria's Journey into Science
04:39 The Joy of Teaching
06:22 Challenges and Advice for Early Career Researchers
08:03 Building a Community of Mentorship
10:35 Collaborators: Good vs. Bad
12:44 Introducing Undergraduates to Research
14:37 Exciting Experiences at the Allen Institute
23:33 Impactful Mentoring Experiences
25:25 Humor and Bonding in the Lab
27:18 Conclusion and Next Guest
📣 Guest
Dr. Valeria De La Rosa-Reyes | Anatomist, Neuroscientist, and Professor, University of Puerto Rico–Bayamón
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
❤️ Love the cause?
Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
🙌🏽 Enjoying the content?
Here are 3 things you can do to help other research scientists see this content:
Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
💡 How can we move beyond just explaining science to creating experiences that invite curiosity and connection?
In this episode of the Science with Impact Podcast, In this episode of Science with Impact, Jocelyn Bosley, Research Impact Coordinator at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, shares how projects like Fun Size Physics help make science more accessible and engaging. With a background spanning physics and science communication, Jocelyn highlights the importance of broader impacts, defining audiences, and mentoring the next generation of scientists.
🤔 Who is this for?
📋 What is it about?
Jocelyn shares how her journey fuels her passion for connecting people with science. Through Fun-Sized Physics, she shows how interdisciplinary perspectives, storytelling, and even poetry can make complex physics accessible and inspiring.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Science isn’t one-size-fits-all. With storytelling, metaphors, and audience-focused communication, researchers can spark curiosity, share wonder, and show that there’s a science for everyone.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction: The Love for Science
00:37 Welcome to the Podcast
00:52 Meet Jocelyn Bosley
01:18 The Importance of Broader Impacts
04:27 Discovering a Passion for Science
10:23 The Marshmallow Experiment and Delayed Gratification
11:48 Interdisciplinary Perspectives in Science
16:29 Fun Size Physics: Bridging Gaps in Science Communication
17:44 Condensed Matter Physics: More Than Meets the Eye
21:42 The Impact of Poetry and Physics 21:58 Understanding Condensed Matter Physics
23:11 Translating Complex Science for General Audiences
24:38 Using AI to Aid Science Communication
26:26 Balancing Accuracy and Precision in Science Communication
28:20 The Importance of Audience in Communication
31:26 Objectivity and Passion in Science
36:27 The Role of Mentorship in Science
44:33 Closing Thoughts and Future Guests
📣 Guest
Jocelyn Bosley — Research Impact Coordinator, University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Curator, Fun Size Physics
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
❤️ Love the cause?
Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
🙌🏽 Enjoying the content?
Here are 3 things you can do to help other research scientists see this content:
Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
💡 How can scientists build a society that is not only STEM-literate, but science-positive?
In this episode of the Science with Impact Podcast, evolutionary biologist and Galactic Polymath founder Dr. Matt Wilkins makes a compelling case for why teachers deserve our focus. Drawing on over a decade of experience in science communication and K–12 education, Matt argues that outreach can’t be an afterthought—it must be woven into the research workflow itself.
From designing open-access lessons to confronting funding challenges, Matt shares strategies for mobilizing knowledge in ways that empower educators and inspire students. He also reflects on the broader systemic shifts needed to create sustainable science communication infrastructure, and why supporting teachers is one of the most powerful multipliers for impact.
🤔 Who is this for?
📋 What is it about?
Matt highlights why teachers are on the frontlines of defending science in classrooms, and how scientists can collaborate with them to amplify impact. He outlines models for outreach that move beyond one-off talks, explores the funding challenges facing science communication, and shares lessons learned from building Galactic Polymath—an education studio translating research into classroom-ready resources.
🔑 Key Takeaway: The final step of research isn’t just publishing—it’s mobilizing knowledge into classrooms and communities. Supporting teachers is one of the most powerful ways to foster a science-positive society.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Teachers
00:48 Meet Dr. Matt Wilkins
01:24 Dr. Wilkins' Journey and Interests
04:30 Connecting Science and Education
04:54 Effective Outreach Strategies
11:18 Challenges in Science Communication
15:15 Galactic Polymath and Its Mission
29:02 Funding and Future of Science Communication
37:25 Final Thoughts and Future Questions
📣 Guest
Dr. Matt Wilkins | Founder & CEO, Galactic Polymath Education Studio | Evolutionary Biologist & Science Communicator
Galactic Polymath Education Studio’s YouTube Channel
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
❤️ Love the cause?
Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
🙌🏽 Enjoying the content?
Here are 3 things you can do to help other research scientists see this content:
Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
💡 How can scientists move beyond generic AI prompts to design workflows that are faster, smarter, and more impactful?
In this episode of the Science with Impact Podcast, Dr. Lennart Nacke, University Research Chair at the University of Waterloo, shares his journey from game design to academic entrepreneurship. He unpacks the flaws of traditional publishing, the rise of alternative models, and the role of social media in science communication. Dr. Nacke also introduces “context engineering”—designing AI prompts with audience, purpose, and constraints in mind—to help researchers produce clearer, more accurate work.
🤔 Who is this for?
Scientists and PhD students seeking practical, responsible ways to use AI in research and writing.
Mentors and educators helping students build stronger communication and publishing skills.
STEM professionals exploring entrepreneurship, branding, and the future of publishing in the AI era.
📋 What is it about?
Lennart explores how AI can streamline academic writing and research, from prompt design to literature reviews, while addressing challenges like hallucinations and plagiarism. He also critiques broken publishing incentives and argues for open platforms and entrepreneurial mindsets in science.
🔑 Key Takeaway: AI isn’t replacing scientists—it’s amplifying them. With strong prompts, clear context, and critical thinking, researchers can work faster and share science that reaches beyond academia.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Welcome to Science with Impact
00:49 Meet Dr. Leonard Nakey
01:19 The Importance of Effective Workflow
02:23 Waterloo: A Hub of Innovation
03:00 Connecting Through LinkedIn
04:00 Journey into Academic Entrepreneurship
06:31 The Role of AI in Academic Writing
17:58 The Future of Academic Publishing
28:42 The Role of PhDs in Advancing Knowledge
29:08 Incentivizing Quality and Accessibility in Research
31:21 Leveraging AI for Research Efficiency
32:00 Effective AI Prompt Engineering
33:44 Avoiding AI Hallucinations and Ensuring Accuracy
40:39 Navigating Plagiarism Concerns with AI
44:49 Building a Research Knowledge Base
46:51 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions
📣 Guest
Dr. Lennart Nacke | University Research Chair, Professor of HCI and Director of the HCI Games Group at the University of Waterloo’s Games Institute.
Free Mind Maps on Research Methods -
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
❤️ Love the cause?
Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
🙌🏽 Enjoying the content?
Here are 3 things you can do to help other research scientists see this content:
Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
💡 How can scientists turn complex data into visuals that are clear, accurate, and impossible to misinterpret?
In this special collaboration between Science with Impact Podcast,and the Center for Sustainable Nanotechnology, we share highlights from an interactive workshop co-led by Dr. Miriam Krause and Dr. Vanessa Rosa.
Designed for undergraduate researchers, students learned how to make data visuals clear, accurate, and impactful. Using intentionally bad examples, students learned to spot common pitfalls, choose the right chart, and redesign visuals so research is understood exactly as intended.
🤔 Who is this for?
Undergraduate and early-career researchers who want to present data clearly and confidently.
Scientists, educators, and research mentors seeking hands-on strategies to teach data visualization while strengthening students’ science communication skills.
STEM communicators who need visuals that are accurate, accessible, and engaging for diverse audiences.
📋 What is it about?
Participants practice identifying when a chart’s signal is being buried by noise, explore how to match chart types to their dataset, and learn why measures like medians can reveal more than averages. The session closes with a demonstration of visualization tools and decision trees that help scientists select the clearest, most accurate way to present their findings.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Clear, accurate visuals aren’t just decoration—they’re a critical part of scientific integrity. By identifying common pitfalls, choosing the right chart type, and protecting the signal from unnecessary noise, researchers can ensure their data is understood exactly as intended.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction and Speaker Background
00:26 Understanding Visualizations and Color Associations
00:41 Introduction to Data Visualization Techniques
01:00 Detailed Explanation of Dissertation Work
02:12 Improving Bar Charts and Labeling
03:17 Discussion on Appropriate Data Representation
07:43 Signal to Noise Ratio in Visualizations
13:49 Choosing the Right Visualization Tools
19:10 Conclusion and Post-Workshop Survey
📣 Guest
Dr. Miriam Krause | Director of Education and Outreach, Center for Sustainable Nanotechnology
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
❤️ Love the cause?
Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
🙌🏽 Enjoying the content?
Here are 3 things you can do to help other research scientists see this content:
Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
💡 What if asking better questions changed everything, from the classroom to your career?
Today on the Science with Impact Podcast, Dr. César Nufio is a Multimedia Content Developer and Program Officer II at BioInteractive. In this episode, he shares how his journey, from a high school student unsure about science to a creative leader in science communication, shaped the way he approaches teaching, leadership, and learning. Through storytelling, design, and a commitment to inclusive education, César shows how we can make science more human, and more meaningful.
🤔 Who is this for?
Educators and scientists building learning environments that prioritize curiosity, not just content
Researchers rethinking success beyond tenure, prestige, and traditional academic metrics
STEM professionals using storytelling, collaboration, and inclusive practices to broaden their impact
📋 What is it about?
César shares his path from art to science, critiques the limitations of academic metrics, and offers ideas for building inclusive, collaborative spaces where students lead their own learning. He also reflects on what it means to leave behind outdated definitions of success—and how embracing discomfort can open the door to more meaningful work.
🔑 Key Takeaway: When we center curiosity and collaboration, we create space for deeper learning, more inclusive science, and more authentic definitions of success.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction: Helping Others Develop
00:28 The Role of Curiosity in Science
03:17 Personal Journey: From Art to Science
05:56 Teaching Philosophy and Student Engagement
09:00 The Intersection of Art and Science
12:58 Navigating Academic and Research Challenges
16:17 Effective Science Communication and Storytelling
20:27 Reflecting on Academic Metrics and Success
39:39 The Struggles of Collaborating Institutions
40:41 The Pressure to Publish Single Author Papers
41:20 Valuing Collaborations in Academia
42:33 Redesigning the Academic Tenure System
44:44 The Importance of Diverse Faculty Roles
46:18 Challenges and Opportunities in Academia
49:54 The Role of Tenure in Academic Institutions
01:04:06 Embracing Discomfort and Uncertainty
01:15:05 Engaging Students with Phenomena-Based Learning
01:19:07 Unlearning Academic Values for Personal Fulfillment
📣 Guest
Dr. César Nufio | Multimedia Content Developer and Program Officer II, BioInteractive, Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
❤️ Love the cause?
Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
🙌🏽 Enjoying the content?
Here are 3 things you can do to help other research scientists see this content:
Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
💡 What happens when we treat chemistry as a language—and start teaching it like one?
Today on the Science with Impact Podcast, Colleen Kelley, founder of the Molecular Literacy Project and creator of Kids Chemical Solutions, shares how comics, storytelling, and joyful design can make chemistry accessible—even to eight-year-olds. A first-generation college student turned chemistry professor, Colleen reflects on how early exposure and imagination can shift chemistry from a gatekeeping course to a subject students feel confident exploring. She invites us to reimagine chemistry not as something to survive, but as a language to speak—with curiosity, confidence, and creativity.
🤔 Who is this for?
📋 What is it about?
Colleen shares how molecular literacy can transform how students experience chemistry. She explores why storytelling, visual thinking, and intuition matter just as much as equations, and how rethinking our approach can reduce failure rates, close equity gaps, and bring joy back into the classroom.
🔑 Key Takeaway: When we treat chemistry as a language and meet students with curiosity, imagination, and clear storytelling, we open the door to lasting understanding—and a more inclusive future in science.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction to Molecular Literacy
00:11 The Power of Storytelling in Science
00:36 Rebranding Chemistry for Broader Impact
01:46 Meet Colleen Kelly: Comic Book Creator
02:03 Making Chemistry Accessible Through Comics
04:30 Colleen's Journey into Chemistry
07:49 The Joy of Solving Chemistry Puzzles
10:51 Incorporating Mysteries into Chemistry Education
11:52 Resources for Teachers and Students
17:22 The Importance of Early Chemistry Education
18:38 Challenges in Learning Chemistry
21:48 Developing Chemical Intuition
23:09 Calculator Confidence vs. Intuition
24:21 Drawing to Enhance Molecular Literacy
25:01 Teaching Chemistry to Young Students
27:52 Addressing Chemistry's High Failure Rates
32:53 Storytelling in Chemistry Education
39:21 Rebranding Chemistry Education
43:02 Integrating Science with Other Disciplines
45:29 Final Thoughts on Molecular Literacy
📣 Guest
Colleen Kelley, Ph.D. | Chemist, educator, and founder of the Molecular Literacy Project
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
❤️ Love the cause?
Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
🙌🏽 Enjoying the content?
Here are 3 things you can do to help other research scientists see this content:
Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
How can scientists align discovery with societal needs—and why is listening just as critical as leading?
Today on the Science with Impact Podcast, Bradley D. Olsen, professor of chemical engineering at MIT, shares how researchers can thoughtfully navigate the intersection of science and societal impact. From his pioneering work in polymer chemistry and cheminformatics to international outreach and advancing digital education, Brad reflects on the importance of humility, collaboration, and open-mindedness in driving meaningful change.
🤔 Who is this for?
Brad’s journey shows why solving the right problem starts with listening—to society, funders, and diverse voices. He reflects on how science and engineering intersect, what international outreach taught him about humility, and how lifelong learning and embracing failure drive innovation. He also shares how data tools are advancing polymer chemistry and why early digital literacy empowers the next generation.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Scientific progress depends on more than discovery—it requires listening, collaboration, and empowering others to contribute.
⌚️ Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction to Problem Solving in Science
01:00 The Importance of Societal Impact in Research
01:40 Meet Brad Olson: Background and Collaborations
02:30 Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists
05:05 The Intersection of Science and Engineering
06:00 Challenges in Measuring Outreach Impact
10:48 International Outreach and Cultural Sensitivity
15:23 The Joy of Lifelong Learning
20:26 Advancing Polymer Chemistry Through Data Tools
24:16 The Paradigm Shift in Polymer Chemistry
24:45 Challenges in Chem Informatics
25:36 Understanding Polymer Mixtures
26:20 Capturing Molecular Diversity
27:04 Innovative Data Tools for Polymers
27:45 The Importance of Learning and Creativity
29:04 Developing a Stochastic Representation
31:00 Analogies in Scientific Discovery
34:04 Educational Challenges and Innovations
42:13 Balancing Science and Communication
45:24 Environmental Passion and Personal Reflections
48:46 Future of Scientists in Society
📣 GuestBradley D. Olsen, Ph.D. | Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
❤️ Love the cause?
Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
🙌🏽 Enjoying the content?
Here are 3 things you can do to help other research scientists see this content:
Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
"How can we embrace mentorship, self-reflection, and inclusive leadership to amplify our impact as scientists?"
Today on the Science with Impact Podcast, Paul Faronbi, better known as IncrediPaul®, shares how research scientists can lead with intention, foster inclusive communities, and grow personally and professionally.
From his work as a chemical engineer in R&D to founding Nala STEM and coaching young professionals, Paul offers candid insights on mentorship, self-care, and integrating your values into your impact.
Who is this for?
What’s it about?
Paul’s journey from chemical engineering R&D to founding NALA STEM and establishing the IncrediPaul brand underscores the importance of mentorship and community. He emphasizes the importance of balancing technical skills with ongoing development in communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence, while also practicing self-care, gratitude, and faith as essential components of sustainable leadership. Navigating current challenges to DEI initiatives, Paul advocates for staying true to inclusive values and embracing growth as a continuous process, finding joy along the way.
🔑 Key Takeaway:
Leading with intention, mentoring with empathy, and nurturing your own growth can transform you—and the communities you serve—far beyond the bench.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction to Paul Faronbi
01:54 Balancing Multiple Roles
02:25 The Importance of Self-Care
03:27 Journey into Podcasting
05:07 Life as a Scientist
06:27 Challenges in STEM and DEI
08:32 Leadership in Tough Times
14:22 Path to Becoming a Scientist
19:32 Building Communities in STEM
24:34 Advice for Young Professionals
33:32 Balancing Technical and Soft Skills
35:50 The Compound Effect: Small Steps to Big Changes
37:36 Gratitude and Reflection in Leadership
37:47 Relentless Solution Focus: Shifting from Problems to Solutions
41:59 Nala STEM: Building a Supportive Community
48:08 Faith and Leadership: Integrating Personal Values
58:47 The Journey of Personal Growth and Development
01:09:16 Collaborating Beyond STEM: Bridging Worlds
01:14:15 Final Thoughts and Reflections
Guest:
Paul Faronbi, Ph.D. | Chemical engineer, leadership coach and podcast host at IncrediPaul®, and founder of NALA(STEM).
Host:
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click here to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
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Our mission is to provide grants and supplemental awards to research scientists and organizations that have a broader societal impact.
To support this mission, we've established a nonprofit.
Click this link to donate to a specific initiative.
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Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
💡 How can we design chemistry outreach that sparks long-term curiosity, not just a one-off slime demo?
Today on the Science with Impact Podcast, Ayanna Lynch, an early-career chemistry communicator who manages national outreach programs at the American Chemical Society, reveals practical frameworks for making STEM events accessible, measurable, and community-driven.
Who is this for?
K-12 educators seeking engaging, low-barrier chemistry activities
University researchers aiming to broaden the societal impact of their work
Science-communication professionals refining assessment strategies
Nonprofits and museums building community partnerships around STEM
What's it about?
Ayanna’s journey from chemistry/art-history double major to Getty Museum conservation intern to ACS outreach coordinator
Building “choose-your-own-adventure” activities that tap multiple senses and learning styles
Crafting surveys and school partnerships to measure informal-learning impact
Leveraging local industry (agriculture, mining, etc.) for authentic, place-based chemistry events
Using personal storytelling and online “day-in-the-life” content to diversify STEM career narratives
🔑 Key Takeaway: Meeting communities where they are—and letting participants guide the experiment— transforms chemistry from a distant subject into a personal, lasting discovery.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction to Chemistry's Impact
00:38 The Importance of Collaboration in Science
00:54 Meet Ayana Lynch
01:21 Personal Impact of Science
02:12 Applying Scientific Mindset in Daily Life
04:43 Engaging the Public with Science
06:34 The Fusion of Art and Science
07:19 Hands-On Science Communication
10:00 Measuring Engagement and Accessibility
23:01 Building Community Partnerships
26:18 Storytelling in Science
28:40 Day-to-Day Life of a Science Program Manager
29:34 Final Thoughts and Future Questions
Guest:
Ayanna Lynch | Early-career chemistry communicator; Program Coordinator, American Chemical Society Outreach
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayanna-l-5ab393101/
Host:
I’m Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with scientists to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact through evidence-based, question-led, and person-centered science communication.
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💡 How can researchers transform their work from academic silos into meaningful societal impact that truly benefits communities while advancing their careers?
Today on the Science with Impact Podcast, Dr. Janice McDonnell, Associate Professor at Rutgers University and ARIS Broader Impacts specialist, shares her transformative approach to making research accessible and impactful. With over 30 years of experience bridging marine science and education, she reveals practical strategies for developing authentic community partnerships and navigating NSF's evolving broader impacts requirements.
Who is this for?
Early career researchers struggling to develop meaningful broader impacts plans
Principal investigators seeking authentic community engagement strategies
Research administrators building institutional capacity for societal impact
STEM educators looking to connect research with real-world applications
Science communicators wanting to make complex research relatable
What's it about?
Dr. McDonnell's journey from marine scientist to expert in broader impacts illustrates how researchers can expand their influence beyond academia. She shares her experience leading the transformative MARE program, which reached 10,000 students and trained 550 teachers over 15 years, demonstrating a quantifiable community impact. The conversation explores her development of the ARIS Broader Impacts Toolkit—a comprehensive resource helping researchers navigate NSF requirements through self-reflection and strategic planning.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Every scientific field has broader impact potential—the key is asking "why" questions until you find the human story that connects your research to what communities care about, then building genuine two-way partnerships that benefit both science and society.
Time Stamps:
00:00 The Broader Impact of Science
00:58 Meet Janice McDonnell: A Passion for Science and Education
02:16 Building a Legacy: The MARE Program
06:49 The Importance of Active and Social Learning
14:39 The Role of Mentors and Personal Influences
18:59 Developing the ARIS Broader Impacts Toolkit
24:02 Challenges and Solutions for Early Career Researchers
26:28 Reflecting on Academic Impact
27:06 Defining Goals and Strategies
28:06 Balancing Power Dynamics in Research
29:09 Collaborative Research Success Stories
30:40 Building Institutional Capacity for Broader Impact
33:05 Adapting Broader Impact Strategies Across Disciplines
35:40 Making Complex Science Relatable
40:55 Challenges in Communicating Science
44:32 Engaging with Broader Audiences
51:03 Future Directions for Broader Impact
Resources:
ARIS Broader Impacts Toolkit - Comprehensive planning and evaluation tools
NSF Broader Impacts Guidelines - Official NSF criteria and examples
MARE Program - Marine science education curriculum
Tools of Science YouTube Series - Making research practices accessible to students
Guest:
Janice McDonnell | Associate Professor, Rutgers University | Science Agent, Department of Youth Development | ARIS Leadership Team Member
Background: M.S. in Benthic Ecology, 30+ years in marine science education
LinkedIn: Janice McDonnell
ARIS Profile: researchinsociety.org/team/janice-mcdonnell
Host:
I’m Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with scientists to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact through evidence-based, question-led, and person-centered science communication.
Support
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💡 How can we bridge the gap between complex scientific research and public understanding, making science accessible and emotionally engaging for diverse communities?
Today on Science with Impact, we're joined by Amancay Kugler, Executive Director of Yes Ma'am Circus, a contemporary circus company based in Chicago. With a family deeply rooted in scientific research—from chemistry PhDs to rocket scientists—Amancay brings a unique perspective as an artist passionate about making science accessible through performance.
🤔 Who is this for?
Scientists seeking innovative approaches to public engagement and outreach
Science communicators looking to incorporate storytelling and emotional connection
Anyone interested in the intersection of creativity and scientific literacy
📋 What is it about?
This episode examines how circus arts can enhance science communication, create inclusive learning environments, and foster meaningful connections between researchers and the public.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction to Inclusive Circus Arts
01:12 Meet Amancay Kugler and Yes Ma'am Circus
02:33 Values and Inclusivity in Circus
05:28 Personal Background and Family Influence
09:11 Combining Circus and Science
11:19 Environmental Themes in Performances
14:05 Challenges and Successes in Outreach
17:48 Creative Process in Circus Arts
19:53 Effective Science Communication Through Circus
26:47 Engaging Audiences and Making Science Relatable
33:41 Final Thoughts and Reflections
📣 Guest
Amancay Kugler, Executive Director of Yes Ma'am Circus, a Chicago-based contemporary circus company focused on inclusive, narrative-driven performances, with a background in dance and psychology, with extensive experience in STEAM outreach and community engagement.
🎙️ Host
I’m Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with scientists to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact through evidence-based, question-led, and person-centered science communication.
🙌🏽 How can you help the podcast?
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Share this episode with your favorite colleague 😊
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🌎 About Science with Impact:
🧪 How can I translate my academic research skills into a rewarding industry career, and what does that path look like?
Today on Science with Impact, we feature a panel of industry scientists from leading companies, including Zachary Kean of Dow, Erin Finley, Ph.D., of Thermo Fisher Scientific, Cameron Brown of Eastman, Danielle Witek of Under Armour, and Nicholas Van Zee of Hoya Vision Care.
The panelists share their career journeys, transitioning from academia to industry, and offer practical advice for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. They discuss everything from leveraging your technical skills and building a professional network to the importance of failure and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
🤔 Who is this for?
Graduate students and postdocs in the sciences.
Scientists interested in pursuing research and development roles in an industrial setting.
Academics who are undecided about their career path and want to learn more about industry opportunities.
Anyone seeking effective strategies for job searching, networking, and transitioning from academia to industry.
📋 What is it about?
The panelists detail their diverse and often non-linear career paths, emphasizing that the skills learned during a Ph.D. are broadly applicable. They discuss the critical shift from pursuing academic curiosity to solving specific, tangible problems in industry, where factors such as economics, processing, and scalability are paramount.
🗒️ Key Takeaway: Your most valuable skill is not your specific research topic, but your ability to solve problems, learn from failures, and iterate. To launch a successful industry career, focus on building genuine connections through curiosity and learn to communicate your complex work in a simple way that gets people excited about its potential.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Navigating Career Transitions: Industry from Academia
00:55 Introduction and Host's Mission
01:13 Panelist Introductions: Zach Keen
01:56 Panelist Introductions: Erin Finley
03:10 Panelist Introductions: Cameron Brown
03:46 Panelist Introductions: Danielle Whittick
04:32 Panelist Introductions: Nick
05:19 Overview of Trainee Interests and Goals
05:56 Panel Discussion: Transitioning from Academia to Industry
10:31 Panel Discussion: Bridging Academic Research and Real-World Impact
17:58 Panel Discussion: Technical Skills in Academia vs. Industry
28:34 Navigating Contract Work Challenges
29:40 Understanding Scope Creep
30:42 Collaboration in Large Companies
32:57 Balancing Long-Term Projects
37:25 Networking and Job Search Strategies
52:11 Work-Life Balance in Industry
53:48 Final Thoughts and Q&A
📣 Guests:
Zachary Kean | Research Scientist at Dow Chemical
Erin Finley, Ph.D. | Manager, Solid State Lab & Metrology Group at Thermo Fisher Scientific
Cameron Brown | Applications Research Group at Eastman Chemical
Danielle Witek | Apparel Designer at Under Armour
Nicholas Van Zee | Senior Scientist at Hoya Vision Care
🎙️ Host
I’m Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with scientists to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact through evidence-based, question-led, and person-centered science communication.
🙌🏽 How can you help the podcast?
Level 1: If you found this content helpful, please subscribe!
Level 2: Already subscribed? Share with a colleague!
Share this newsletter with your favorite colleague 😊
Level 3: Want to go further? Become a monthly Benefactor 🌎 , supporting grants for scientists to broaden their impact.
🌎 About Science with Impact:
💡 How can metal remember?
Today on Science with Impact, Dr. Othmane Benafan discusses the fascinating world of shape memory alloys, their discovery, and their applications in various fields, including space exploration and everyday life.
He emphasizes the importance of STEM outreach and community engagement, sharing his journey as a scientist and the impact of mentorship. The discussion also addresses misconceptions about shape-memory alloys and the importance of effective science communication in making research accessible to the public.
🤔 Who is this for?
Early-career scientists, engineers, and STEM educators seeking to understand the powerful link between fundamental materials research, high-stakes applications in space exploration, and the vital role of community outreach would benefit most from this conversation.
📋 What is it about?
The discussion bridges the gap between high-stakes applications in NASA's space exploration missions and their surprising presence in everyday life, such as in medical stents and braces. Beyond the material science, Benafan shares his journey, underscoring the profound influence of mentorship and the critical need for robust STEM outreach and effective science communication to inspire future innovators and demonstrate actual societal impact.
🗒️ Key Takeaway: The true power of advanced materials, such as shape memory alloys, is unlocked not only through their innovative applications in fields like space exploration but also through compelling science communication that inspires the next generation and demonstrates tangible societal impact.
⌚️ Time Stamps:
00:00 Meet Dr. Benafan
01:06 Why listen?
02:20 Navigating Experimental Work
02:46 The Science of Shape Memory Alloys
03:14 The Role of Elements in Alloys
03:14 Demonstrating Shape Memory Alloys
03:38 Inspiration and Career Path
04:20 The Materials Science of Soccer Kits
04:24 The Impact of Mentorship
08:47 Engaging Students in STEM
09:34 Making Science Relatable
12:14 Understanding Shape Memory Alloys
13:18 Applications of Shape Memory Alloys
14:32 Training Shape Memory Alloys
17:11 Resetting Metal Memory
17:45 Cost and Composition of Shape Memory Alloys
19:09 Designing Alloys for Specific Applications
23:41 Making Material Science Accessible
26:52 Community Engagement and Cultural Connection
28:58 Cultural Connections: Celebrating Diversity
30:47 Innovative STEM Outreach: Engaging Young Minds
32:43 Hands-On Learning: The Science of Soccer
35:13 Assessing Impact: Measuring Engagement in Outreach
39:08 Communicating Science: Making Research Relatable
44:35 Closing Thoughts: The Importance of Sharing Stories
45:09 Past Guest Question
46:37 Closing
📣 Guest:
Othmane Benafan, Ph.D. | Materials Research Engineer (NASA Glenn Research Center)
🎙️ Host
I’m Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., founder of Cuvette Collective, where we partner with scientists to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact through evidence-based, question-led, and person-centered science communication.
🙌🏽 How can you help the podcast?
Level 1: If you found this content helpful, please subscribe!
Level 2: Already subscribed? Leave a like or comment.
Level 3: Want to go further? Become a monthly Benefactor 🌎 of Cuvette Empowered, supporting grants for scientists to broaden their impact.
🌎 About Cuvette Collective:
🧪 How can scientists and researchers successfully navigate career transitions beyond academia while staying true to their values and making an impact?
Today on Science with Impact, we feature Rakeem Marcelle, ScM, as he shares his journey from academic research to consulting and industry. In this discussion, we explore the reasons for leaving a job post-pandemic, focusing on issues like changing work dynamics and project impacts.
🤔 Who is this for?
Early-career researchers, graduate students, and STEM professionals considering a move from academia to industry or consulting. Also valuable for mentors, career advisors, and underrepresented groups in STEM seeking guidance and inspiration.
📋 What is it about?
Rakeem Marcelle shares his career journey, discussing his transition from consulting to the industry. He examines the factors that prompted his move, including the challenges of client-based work following COVID-19, mental health considerations, and the desire for a more fulfilling career path. Marcelle also highlights his background in biology and cancer research, his experiences working at Georgetown University, and his current role in account management.
He emphasizes the importance of relationship-building, advocating for oneself, and maintaining professional boundaries. The conversation sheds light on the dynamics of consulting, industry expectations, and the need for inclusivity in the workplace. Listeners gain insights into the complexities of career shifts and the importance of balancing personal well-being with professional growth.
🗒️ Key Takeaway: Career transitions in STEM are challenging yet rewarding—success stems from building genuine relationships, advocating for yourself, and remaining open to new opportunities that align with your values and desire to make a positive impact.
Note: The statements and opinions expressed by Rakeem in this video are solely his own and do not represent the official policy or position of Komodo Health.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:47 Meet Rakeem Marcelle!
01:57 Career Transition and Consulting Experience
05:30 Consulting vs. Industry: Pros and Cons
12:26 Balancing Client Expectations and Boundaries
13:26 Defining Scope Creep in Industry
14:41 Transitioning from Academia to Industry
14:44 Podcast Traditions and Closing Questions
17:36 Komodo Health and Cancer Research Impact
20:51 Final Thoughts and Farewell
📣 Guest
Rakeem Marcelle, ScM | Account Manager, Komodo Health (Komodo Health)
🎙️ Host
I’m Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with scientists to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact through evidence-based, question-led, and person-centered science communication.
🙌🏽 How can you help the podcast?
Level 1: If you found this content helpful, please subscribe!
Level 2: Already subscribed? Share with a colleague!
Share this newsletter with your favorite colleague 😊
Level 3: Want to go further? Become a monthly Benefactor 🌎 , supporting grants for scientists to broaden their impact.
🌎 About Science with Impact:
🧪 What if leaving academia isn't failure, but the courageous choice to prioritize your values, well-being, and authentic impact over a system that wasn't designed for you?
Today on Science with Impact, we bring you a powerful collective conversation featuring four incredible voices: Drs. Adri Corrales (Museum Education and now grant writing for Unite Oregon), Melissa Collini (Podcast Host & Educator), Morgan Howe (University Data Analyst), and Vanessa Rosa (Science Communication Entrepreneur).
Together, they dismantle the myth that leaving academia means "dripping out of the pipeline, " sharing raw, honest insights about building careers centered on freedom, personhood, and meaningful impact.
🤔 Who is this for?
* Graduate students questioning their academic trajectory
* Postdocs feel trapped in cycles that don't serve them
* Early-career researchers seeking validation for alternative paths
* Anyone struggling with impostor syndrome or feeling "less than" for choosing differently
* Scientists and educators who want to work to be part of life, not all of it
📋 What is it about?
This collective recording session explores the emotional and practical realities of choosing alternative academic careers. The conversation covers everything from recognizing when your body is telling you something's wrong, to the pressure to stay in academia for representation, to the liberating realization that you can choose where to live based on what feeds your soul, not just job availability.
Each panelist shares their journey toward careers that honor their values:
* Adri's transition to community-centered museum work,
* Melissa's move toward teaching and podcasting,
* Morgan's role in university analytics has clear boundaries, and
* Vanessa's leap into entrepreneurship.
They discuss the importance of questioning systems that don't align with your values, finding communities that share your priorities, and imagining new possibilities that might not even exist.
🗒️ Key Takeaway: You can build a career that honors your values, leverages your strengths, and prioritizes your well-being, often by stepping outside traditional academic roles and embracing opportunities to make a direct, tangible impact in your community.
⌚️ Time Stamps:
00:00 Opener00:42 Introduction01:15 Adri's Advice: Follow Your Path04:09 Melissa's Perspective: Reassurance and Validation05:56 Morgan's Insights: Finding Your Community08:22 Melissa's Follow-Up: Listen to Your Body11:22 Vanessa's Research and Faculty Insights13:25 Imagining New Possibilities17:42 Freedom, Personhood, and Impact19:32 Personal Stories and Reflections36:42 Building community and validation
📣 Guests:
* Morgan Howe, Ph.D. | Institutional Researcher, Cal State Channel Islands
* Adri Corrales, Ph.D. | (Recording) Public Programs & Exhibit Developer, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. (Current) Grant Writer, Unite Oregon
* Melissa Collini, Ph.D.| Teaching Assistant, University of North Texas and Co-Host of the Chemistry for Your Life Podcast
🎙️ Host
I’m Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., founder of Cuvette Collective, where we partner with scientists to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact through evidence-based, question-led, and person-centered science communication.
🙌🏽 How can you help the podcast?
Level 1: If you found this content helpful, please subscribe!
Level 2: Already subscribed? Share with a colleague!
Share this newsletter with your favorite colleague 😊
Level 3: Want to go further? Become a monthly Benefactor 🌎 , supporting grants for scientists to broaden their impact.
🌎 About Science with Impact:
🧪 How can scientists and educators find fulfilling, impactful careers beyond the traditional academic path—and what does it take to align your work with your values and well-being?
Today on Science with Impact, we sit down with Dr. Adri Corrales, a former academic turned museum professional, who shares their journey from the pressures of academia to a values-driven role as a Public Programs and Exhibit Developer at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.
Adri opens up about the pivotal decisions, transferable skills, and systemic challenges that shaped their transition, and offers practical insights for anyone considering an “alt-academic” career.
🤔 Who is this for?
* Graduate students and postdocs questioning the academic pipeline
* Scientists and educators seeking meaningful, community-centered work
* DEI advocates and those passionate about equity in STEM and education
* Anyone wrestling with work-life balance and personal agency in their career
📋 What is it about?
Dr. Adri Corrales discusses their path from chemistry research and teaching to museum education, highlighting the challenges of mental health, unclear expectations, and systemic inequities in academia.
Adri details how skills like self-directed learning and research translate to impactful museum work, where community input and practical outcomes are prioritized. The conversation examines the gap between academic research and real-world application, the closure of DEI offices, and the importance of scrutinizing harmful systems, both within universities and museums.
Adri and host Dr. Vanessa Rosa reflect on the liberating shift toward work that is a part of life, not the whole of it, and the power of planting seeds for future generations.
💡 Key Takeaway: You can build a career that honors your values, leverages your strengths, and prioritizes your well-being, often by stepping outside traditional academic roles and embracing opportunities to make a direct, tangible impact in your community.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction
01:45 Embracing a New Role
02:35 Defining Alt Academia
03:43 Transferable Skills
05:50 Practical Application of Research
17:29 Challenges in Academia
20:14 Journey to Museums
25:27 Values and Career Alignment
29:10 Common Themes in Alt Academia
31:32 Reflecting on Burnout and Overwork
32:23 Nonprofit Work-Life Balance
34:35 Challenges in Academia
35:14 Unclear Expectations and DEI Offices
38:17 Impact of DEI Office Closures
40:37 Equity Research and Systemic Issues
44:41 Interdisciplinary Research Challenges
48:54 Transforming Education and Impact
54:33 Interrogating Harmful Systems
58:12 Final Reflections and Advice
📣 Guest
Adri Corrales, Ph.D. | Public Programs & Exhibit Developer, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
🎙️ Host
I’m Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., founder of Cuvette Collective, where we partner with scientists to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact through evidence-based, question-led, and person-centered science communication.
🙌🏽 How can you help the podcast?
Level 1: If you found this content helpful, please subscribe!
Level 2: Already subscribed? Share with a colleague!
Share this newsletter with your favorite colleague 😊
Level 3: Want to go further? Become a monthly Benefactor 🌎 , supporting grants for scientists to broaden their impact.
🌎 About Science with Impact:
🧪 Feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to "make it" in academia, or wondering if your passion for teaching and science communication could lead you somewhere more fulfilling?
Today on Science with Impact, I sit down with Dr. Melissa Collini, currently a Teaching Assistant at the University of North Texas and co-host of the Chemistry For Your Life Podcast, to explore the pivotal choices and challenges of building a meaningful, alternative academic career.
🤔 Who is this for?
STEM faculty, graduate students, early-career researchers, and academic leaders interested in:
* Expanding career possibilities outside the professoriate
* Prioritizing mental health and work-life balance in academia
* Aligning personal values with professional impact
📋 What is it about?
Melissa Collini shares her journey from organic chemistry to chemistry education research, unpacking the struggles with anxiety and depression that shaped her approach to career and life. This episode highlights practical strategies for:
* Navigating alt-academic career transitions and finding your fit beyond faculty roles
* Building supportive networks and seeking mentorship
* Balancing personal well-being with professional goals
* Using science communication to broaden your impact
Melissa’s reflections offer a candid look at the realities of academic careers, the importance of empathy in teaching, and the ongoing work of honoring your identity and values, both inside and outside the lab.
💡 Key Takeaway: Lasting impact in STEM isn’t limited to the classroom; when we prioritize well-being and follow our curiosity, we can shape science and education from every seat.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Alt Academic Careers with Melissa Collini01:03 Meet Melissa02:07 What is "alt academia"?03:05 What led you to your career?09:11 The good behind career anxiety13:21 What do you love about teaching?18:36 Dogs & Tornados20:11 Annnnd we're back!21:03 Mental health and graduate school24:05 Our late diagnoses26:58 Personhood vs. career30:31 Values and career choices37:51 Academic "freedom"41:56 "What do you want to be when you grow up?"43:01 Talking about Ali Abdaal43:27 Accountability44:15 Making an impact48:51 Aligning decisions, values, and careers
📣 Guest
Melissa Collini, Ph.D.| Teaching Assistant, University of North Texas and Co-Host of the Chemistry for Your Life Podcast
🎙️ Host
I’m Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., founder of Cuvette Collective, where we partner with scientists to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact through evidence-based, question-led, and person-centered science communication.
🙌🏽 How can you help the podcast?
Level 1: If you found this content helpful, please subscribe!
Level 2: Already subscribed? Share with a colleague!
Share this newsletter with your favorite colleague 😊
Level 3: Want to go further? Become a monthly Benefactor 🌎 , supporting grants for scientists to broaden their impact.
🌎 About Science with Impact:
