Local USD Ph.D. Student Aims to Boost Science Literacy Through National Fellowship

Ishola, a Ph.D. student in materials chemistry at USD, is working to make science more accessible through the Science Communication Fellowship. This program certifies science professionals as ambassadors after they complete a Science Communication Workshop.

As a fellow, Ishola will join national science outreach events to promote scientific curiosity and literacy. She aims to inspire others to improve their science communication skills, which she believes are as important as technical skills. She stresses the need to communicate science to non-scientific audiences effectively.

During her fellowship, Ishola took part in the Meet a Scientist program at the South Dakota Discovery Center. She created a science activity called 'Power Up With Polymers' to present her research to young students. The activity, which focuses on designing new polymer materials for energy storage in batteries, sparked interest among the students.

Ishola found it inspiring to share her research with high school and middle school students. She sees engaging with younger students as a key step in making science more accessible.

Ishola views the fellowship as a valuable experience in her scientific journey. She is committed to making science approachable and aims to inspire future scientists as a STEM educator.

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