Science communication and outreach

Dr. Abbie standing in front of a presentation screen, gesturing wildly at the stages of planet formation.

Talking about science with non-scientists is my jam. I’m passionate about science communication to improve science literacy by making science entertaining and accessible. I’ve been a keynote speaker for the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada – Calgary centre; guest astronomer on the “May The Fourth Be With You” Star Wars panel with Skype A Scientist; panelist on social media in science communication at the FORCE11 conference and for the Adler Planetarium‘s “Adler After Dark: Out in Space” 2019 Pride event; writer and presenter at the REO Town Reading Series; returning speaker for Astronomy On Tap Lansing; and lecturer for the Great Lakes Lectures series. My kid-friendly programs and events include the “Make Your Own Pulsar!” activity with the MSU Science Festival, JWST Day at the Abrams Planetarium, and multiple talks with MSU Science Festival and Abrams Planetarium.

See the YouTube playlist for some of my public speaking engagements:

Science is fun, and my energy for astronomy, physics, and space science is bound to rub off on you! I’m available as a science advisor for astronomy, physics, and space science in creative projects (books, video games, visual art, tv, and film) to incorporate scientific concepts in art and storytelling. Please reach out if you’d like to talk more.

Below are more examples of past presentations:

I’m available as a keynote speaker to talk about exciting discoveries in astronomy and astrophysics, the relationship between arts and sciences, and other popular science topics. I can also lead workshops or seminars with an academic audience about outreach and broader impacts, navigating graduate school, or mental health in academia. With my theater and music background, I bring my scientific knowledge, 10+ years of public speaking experience, and infectious enthusiasm to make talks dynamic and fun. I’m well-known for making complicated science understandable, and I customize the material for a bespoke audience experience.

Testimonials

Thanks so much for an AMAZING talk with the Calgary RASC, you are an amazing speaker and presenter. Thoroughly enjoyed every moment tonight.

[Dr. Abbie’s] talk was very worthwhile! I continue to be surprised by the capacity of the speaker to explain very complex concepts in relatable language.

Thanks for making it accessible and engaging to many ages. Black holes are amazing — can’t wait to learn more.

Header photo by M.J. Objois.