The Natural History Museum of Utah Bridges Community and Science Like Nobody Else

Salt Lake City, April 13, 2017- The Natural History Museum of Utah’s Scientist in the Spotlight program works to better the Museum, improve guest experience and highlight the research scientists are currently pursuing. Twice a month, scientists are invited to present their research at the Museum with the hope of engaging guests and connecting them to the scientific process. Different scientists and subjects are spotlighted every first and third Friday from 2-4 p.m.

 “Our goal is to paint a complete picture of what scientists at the Museum and at the University of Utah are doing,” according to Echo Paixao, the Museum’s Assistant Gallery Programs Coordinator. “This is an opportunity to build bridges and to participate in real scientific processes.”

Scientists who participate in the program are currently conducting research in behalf of the Museum or for the University of Utah. Consequently, the research presented is in a very real sense close to home. Topics may range from Anthropology to Biomedical and so much more. Upcoming presentations about current research projects include topics such as big data in health science, the secrets of lizard breath, and a study of the Salt Flats.

Designed to help serve the local communities and residents across the state, the program also offers scientists the opportunity to practice and develop their presentation and communication skills. Ever since the program began four years ago, scientists have been required to interview for a spot in the program.

Museum guests are invited to attend any Scientist in the Spotlight program, included with the regular price of admission. Coming up in June, join hydrologist Evan Kipnis to find out more about the history of the Salt Flats and check out some of his collected samples.

“The Salt Flats is absolutely a unique environment and one of only two places like it in the country,” Evan Kipnis, University of Utah hydrologist said. “My work focuses on how the climate makes changes to the salt and this incredible natural environment.”

Visit the NHMU website for additional information as well as topic and presenter details: https://nhmu.utah.edu/spotlight.

June 2- Studying the Salt Flats by Evan Kipnis

June 16- Molecular Animation by Janet Iwasa

July 7- Mutant Worms! By Pablo Maldonado

July 7- Traditional Diets in a Changing World

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About the Natural History Museum of Utah

The Natural History Museum of Utah is one of the leading scientific research and cultural institutions in the country. Established in 1963, the Museum’s collections contain over 1.6 million objects and offer innovative exhibitions and educational programs to thousands of residents and visitors each year, including traveling and permanent exhibits, special events and other programs. With more than 250,000 visitors a year, the Museum also offers a variety of outreach programs to communities and schools throughout Utah, reaching every school district in the state annually. The Museum has an active scientific research program with more than 30 scientists and 10 field expeditions each year.