- U-M Faculty
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- NSF Broader Impacts
- Science Communication Fellows
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The Science Communication Fellows program is for faculty, post-docs, PhD and graduate students who are interested in sharing their research with the general public.
The U-M Museum of Natural History uses the NSF-supported Portal to the Public guiding framework to bring scientists and public audiences together in face-to-face interactions that promote appreciation and understanding of current scientific research.
Fellows accepted into the program will participate in a series of five professional development workshops hosted by museum staff, focused on building the skills to effectively engage public audiences. During this process and with guidance from museum staff, Fellows will develop meaningful, inquiry-based activities that showcase their research then share these activities with K-12 students and/or the public at two or more community outreach events.
There is no cost to participate in the program. However, participants will be responsible for acquiring their own materials for their tabletop activities.
How people learn
- Monday, September 22, 2025, 4:00–7:00 p.m.
Facilitation strategies
- Monday, September 29, 2025, 4:00–7:00 p.m.
Activity showcase
- Monday, October 6, 2025, 4:00–7:00 p.m.
Brainstorming session (choose one)
- Monday, October 13, 4:00–7:00 p.m. (virtual)
- Wednesday, October 15, 2025, 4:00–7:00 p.m. (virtual)
Prototyping session (choose one)
- Monday, October 27, 2025, 4:00–7:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 29, 2025, 4:00–7:00 p.m.
Upon completion of the workshop series, Fellows sign up to participate in at least two of the following Scientist Spotlight events:
- Sunday, November 16, 2025 at the Museum of Natural History
- Saturday, December 6, 2025 at the Museum of Natural History
- Monday, January 20, 2025 at the Museum of Natural History
- February date TBD, 2026 at the Ann Arbor District Library, downtown branch
- Additional winter and spring 2026 dates TBD
Additional presentation opportunities are available upon completion of the program.
- Museum Science Communication Fellow certificate for reference in a C.V., commending commitment to science communication and public engagement.
- Opportunities to network with other scientists and researchers committed to public engagement as well as with education professionals.
- Complimentary museum membership. As a museum member, you’re entitled to: Free admission to more than 300 museums and science centers around the world, free Planetarium passes, a 20% discount in the Museum Store, invitations to members-only events and exhibition openings, and more!
Science communication workshops and events will be held in person unless otherwise noted.
How to Apply
The application deadline for the Fall 2025 semester is September 8, 2025.
Biological Sciences Building, 1105 North University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1085
[email protected] | 734-764-0478
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