taste of science: It's science Jim, but not as we know it!

How a lifetime of avoiding the lab blossomed into a career in science

I've spent the past 20 years becoming an expert in science communication, but I didn't realize that's what I was doing until recently. Through volunteering, performing, shoveling poop, learning new languages, teaching, and advocating for endangered species, I found my niche in science, just not in any of the ways one might expect. How do unusual opportunities shape a career? What odd jobs help define strengths and passion? Find out, with some fun animal facts and anecdotes :)

Speaker: Blair Bazdarich

The Future is Fungal

One fascinating new area of biomaterials innovation involves using living fungus mycelium to make diverse materials with unique and amazing properties. Companies and researchers are growing furniture, building materials, leather, styrofoam replacements, and more. How does this work? Why is it so cool? What are the benefits and future implications? Can I do this at home? Come learn about (and touch) sample mycelium objects and living mushroom material.

Speaker: Anja Scholze, Tech museum of Innovation