Communicating Broader Impacts: Careers and Opportunities for Scientists

College of Science Seminar
Communicating Broader Impacts: Careers and Opportunities for Scientists

Dr. Calvin Uzelmeier
Director of Exhibits
Rochester Museum & Science Center (RMSC)

Abstract:
The National Science Foundation defines broader impacts as the potential that a given research project has to benefit society and contribute to the achievement of specific, desired societal outcomes. Essentially, why should the public care about the research being done? In what ways is it important to them? While this may seem simple enough, how we communicate broader impacts to the general public in such a way that they understand their importance and actively want to make sure it continues, is a science unto itself. This field of Informal Science Learning (ISL) is the professional world of science museums and science centers, like the Rochester Museum & Science Center. From communication training to the creation of public exhibitions, learn the multiple ways institutions like the RMSC can support communicating broader impacts from a research scientist who has made the professional transition into this field, and how the field of ISL is another professional career in the sciences.  

Speaker Bio:
Bringing over 30 years of experience in informal learning environments, Dr. Calvin Uzelmeier is the Director of Exhibits at the Rochester Museum & Science Center (RMSC).  He leads the creation of inspiring, entertaining, and educational experiences for the RMSC’s diverse public audiences through the development, implementation, evaluation, and continual improvement of exhibit experiences at the RMSC.  Previously, Calvin served as RMSC’s Director of Education for 8 years. Calvin earned his Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry in 1998 from Michigan State University. In addition to his museum work, Calvin has taught Chemistry as an adjunct faculty member at multiple Rochester universities, and teaches in the Museum Studies program at RIT.

Intended Audience:
Beginners, undergraduates, graduates, experts. Those with interest in the topic.

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