What do neutrinos, neuroscience and the beginning of the universe have in common? They make us feel an equal mix of excitement and queasiness.
The cutting-edge research happening in our local community is fascinating and relevant to all of us, but exploring scientific topics independently can feel overwhelming. Surface-level answers on Google or social media are often unverified, while research papers can bury readers in jargon.
But Raleigh locals with a curiosity for science — and perhaps a taste for beer — can join Science on Tap (SoT) for accessible, jargon-free presentations by local scientists at Lynnwood Brewing Concern. The series aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and the general public by featuring scientists who explain what they do, how they do it and why they love it.
Kasey Wagoner is an Assistant Professor of physics and one of the co-founders of Science on Tap. He was first introduced to Science on Tap during his time as a graduate student in St. Louis, Missouri, and has since helped start SoT series in both Princeton, New Jersey and in Raleigh.
Wagoner explained that the success of Science on Tap comes from audiences’ desire to connect with scientific topics in an easygoing, approachable environment.
“There’s a real curiosity for knowing about fundamental science. And on a local level, people also want to know what kind of science is happening in their backyard at NC State,” Wagoner said. “I also think people like to do this kind of stuff in a relaxed setting, which is something Science on Tap offers as compared to other venues.”
Beyond the audience experience, presenters also benefit from having a platform to share their discoveries. Without the barriers of complex language, speakers can spark conversation and curiosity among those who might otherwise be unable to engage.
“This offers a low-stakes environment for scientists to practice communicating with a broader audience, knowing that they’re doing it in a place that is relaxed and entertaining can reduce barriers,” Wagoner said.
Ben Hines, a graduate student in physics and a co-founder and lead organizer of Science on Tap, emphasized how beyond just presentations, the series also aims to connect with listeners through an open forum for discussion and questions.
“One of the biggest pieces that we’re seeing come to life is an event that is audience-driven and not just us speaking at people. This whole community has formed with it,” Hines said. “That’s the coolest thing I’ve seen so far.”
Hines explained that this community has been catalyzed by the support they’ve received from the College of Sciences. Colleagues consistently show up to support each other at events, and Lewis Owen, the dean of the College of Sciences, has made several appearances.
“We wouldn’t have been able to grow as large as we have without the help of a lot of people that are outside of our immediate team. It’s a really great science community we have at NC State and they’ve really pulled together to help make this what it already has become,” Hines said.
At NC State, we are privileged to have access to a myriad of brilliant professors and researchers at our fingertips. But outside of just the scientific community, Science on Tap reaches audiences who may not otherwise have access to listen and conversate with scientists.
Arianna Soldati is an assistant professor in the Marine, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences department and has been helping Science on Tap with marketing and social media. She explained how SoT provides a unique platform for scientists to share their passions with everyday, curious individuals, which is part of the responsibilities that come with their job.
“Communicating my research and my field to the public is an integral part of my job,” Soldati said. “I do research because I’m fascinated by it. I’m really curious. But what’s the point if I’m not sharing that with other people?”
We live in a world of misinformation and a growing apprehension around many scientific topics, so why not go straight to the source? Head to Science on Tap to hear directly from the scientists who are changing the world.
You can keep up with Science on Tap by following their Instagram @scienceontap_ncsu, and by attending their events at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at Lynnwood Brewing Concern.
