Parmvir Bahia found herself frustrated by social media. Bahia works in the department of molecular pharmacology & physiology at the University of Southern Florida. What she was finding online was often alarmist or fraught with stereotypes. She tried to do battle, but then it occurred to her: “You can’t have a discussion on social media.” Face to face is much better, she says.
Weird science
So Bahia went on to found Taste of Science, a festival that brings scientists out of the lab and in front of the public. It is currently in 16 cities, including Memphis. Events began earlier this week. There was a conservation talk at Growlers, an event on pollution at Cafe Eclectic, and speed mentoring, also at Cafe Eclectic. This Thursday, it’s Comedy of Science at Belle Tavern. Comedy of Science will feature comedian/St. Jude scientist Mark Brimble. A Getting Social event will be held on Friday at 7 p.m. at the Corner Bar at the Peabody hotel.
Daniel Bastardo Blanco is a scientist who studies how T-cells consume nutrients. He’s involved with the Memphis arm of Taste of Science. He says Taste of Science is a chance for scientists to relax and do a bit of community outreach. The events, he says, are ideal for students and graduate students. “It’s been a great success,” he says.