Dani R. Lipman

A view from Nanjing, China.

In 2019, I was awarded a Fulbright Research award to study the motiviations and perceptions of university faculty paritcipating in science communication initiatives in China. The infrastructure for science communication looks very different in other parts of the world. However, I was inspired by the fact that regardless of culture, many scientists feel an inherent obligation and motivation to share their knowledge with the public. It is up to us to create systems that encourage and support science outreach for all levels. Doing so inspires new ideas and future generations to contribute to our growing understanding of the world and the universe.

Astronomy on Tap Storrs

I was one of the founding members of the Storrs satellite series for Astronomy on Tap, a program which hosts monthly science talks for the general public at local breweries or bars. Astronomy on Tap is an international initiative, encouraging scientists to interact with the public in an easily accessible, low stakes environment such as a brewery. AoT is a fantastic way to get involved in local communities, and an incredible opportunity for young researchers to develop public speaking skills.

My work was included as part of an incredible art exhibit called “To Order the Days/Para Ordenar Los Días” by Genevieve de Leon at the University of Hartford in March 2023.

Science is an inherently creative endeavor, especially in astronomy. We constantly seek to answer questions that are much larger than ourselves. Envisioning our place in the universe would be an impossible task without inspiration, innovation, and art. Various cultures both modern and ancient viewed the sky as a canvas and history as a story. Whether through writing, painting, song, or dance, I truly believe that science wouldn't be possible without humanities and the appreciation of the human mind.

I participated as a co-lead in the UConn Science Technology and Astronomy Recruits (STARs) program led by Dr. Cara Battersby.

Science communication is a skillset that requires training and practice. As an undergraduate student at the University of Iowa, I found many opportunities and resources which helped me hone my communication skills. I've also spent time developing my own philosophy towards outreach. I led physics demonstration shows and hosted electronics workshops for children, and put on multi-disciplinary science trivia competitions to bridge the gap between different fields. I also participated in programs like the Latham Science Engagement Fellowship which seeks to teach young researchers how to present their work to a variety of audiences and help fellows design multiple outreach programs within a year.

Encouraging and preparing others to share their science knowledge is very important to me as a researcher. As a graduate student, I co-led a programs for undergraduate students called UConn STARs . Similar to Latham, UConn STARs promotes professional development and helps students design outreach programs with k-12 schools. These environments are filled with collaboration and mentorship, and are the perfect opportunities for young scientists to cultivate their communication skills.