Monthly SciComm WrapUp: June 2025

A brief summary of what fun sci-comm things I did in the month of June!

June had some exciting sci-comm and mentoring opportunities! Here’s a quick look at what I’ve been up to this month:

Samuel Nabrit Conference for Early Career Scholars

This month, I had the pleasure of serving for the second time on the planning committee for the Samuel M. Nabrit Conference for Early Career Scholars—an event that celebrates and supports emerging scholars from historically excluded backgrounds in STEM. This year, I helped organize two exciting parts of the conference: the Faculty Panel, which brought together incredible mentors to share advice and experiences, and the Local Cuisine Showcase, where we highlighted delicious eats from local BIPOC-owned businesses. It was an energizing, community-centered experience that reminded me how joyful and collaborative academic spaces can be.

Stories with Scientists for Summer Research Students

This month, I had the chance to present my thesis research and personal journey in science as part of Stories with Scientists—a TED-style talk series hosted by Brown’s Office of Graduate Studies for undergraduates in the Leadership Alliance summer program. The goal was to give students a high-level look at the diverse kinds of research happening on campus while sharing how we got here. It was an honor to speak to such a motivated group of future scientists and to be part of a program that values mentorship and storytelling just as much as data, especially as a Leadership Alliance alumni myself!

Interview for Ciencia Pa’ Todes PRIDE Month Event!

This month for Ciencia Pa’ Todes, I hosted an Instagram LIVE as part of our Pride Month Spotlight Series, where we’re highlighting queer researchers and their stories in STEM. We talked about the ups and downs of being queer in academia, how identity shapes the way we do science, and the power of visibility in research and outreach spaces. It was such a thoughtful and affirming conversation, and I’m so grateful to be building community and celebrating the voices that often go unheard in science. Catch the replay on our IG page! 🌈🧪

New MicroBites Article!

I published another short-form microbiology article with MicroBites! This month’s article was about the first gut microbiome compositions of babies and how it impacts their brain health. Check it out here

Letter to Science: Protect Trans Scientists

In a letter published on Juneteenth, we urged academic institutions to advocate and protect trans scientists against the current onslaughts of anti-trans legislation. Advocating for all of us keeps everyone safe. I hope that those that read our later take heed and establish protective measures at their institutions. Read the letter here!

Volunteer at Brown STEM Fellowship Bootcamp

As a NSF GRFP fellow, I was invited to help out in Brown’s latest STEM fellowship bootcamp. A group of 1st and 2nd year PhD students are being guided in the fellowship writing process over the course of the summer. I was happy to speak about my experience and help give them feedback on their drafts.

That’s a wrap for June! Stay tuned for more SciComm updates next month.

Until then, keep sharing science! 🚀

I’m glad you’re here :)

—Mel

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