How can scientists build a society that is not only STEM-literate, but science-positive?
In this episode of the Science with Impact Podcast, evolutionary biologist and Galactic Polymath founder Dr. Matt Wilkins makes a compelling case for why teachers deserve our focus. Drawing on over a decade of experience in science communication and K–12 education, Matt argues that outreach can’t be an afterthought—it must be woven into the research workflow itself.
From designing open-access lessons to confronting funding challenges, Matt shares strategies for mobilizing knowledge in ways that empower educators and inspire students. He also reflects on the broader systemic shifts needed to create sustainable science communication infrastructure, and why supporting teachers is one of the most powerful multipliers for impact.
🤔 Who is this for?
- Scientists and PhD students who want to make their research matter beyond journals and conferences.
- Research mentors and program leaders who recognize that communication skills are as essential as lab skills, and want tools to help students succeed.
- STEM professionals and educators interested in partnering with teachers, scaling outreach, and building a science-positive society.I era.
📋 What is it about?
Matt highlights why teachers are on the frontlines of defending science in classrooms, and how scientists can collaborate with them to amplify impact. He outlines models for outreach that move beyond one-off talks, explores the funding challenges facing science communication, and shares lessons learned from building Galactic Polymath—an education studio translating research into classroom-ready resources.
🔑 Key Takeaway: The final step of research isn’t just publishing—it’s mobilizing knowledge into classrooms and communities. Supporting teachers is one of the most powerful ways to foster a science-positive society.
⌚️ Time Stamps
00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Teachers
00:48 Meet Dr. Matt Wilkins
01:24 Dr. Wilkins' Journey and Interests
04:30 Connecting Science and Education
04:54 Effective Outreach Strategies
11:18 Challenges in Science Communication
15:15 Galactic Polymath and Its Mission
29:02 Funding and Future of Science Communication
37:25 Final Thoughts and Future Questions
📣 Guest:
Dr. Matt Wilkins | Founder & CEO, Galactic Polymath Education Studio | Evolutionary Biologist & Science Communicator
Galactic Polymath Education Studio’s YouTube Channel
🎙️ Host
Vanessa Rosa, Ph.D., is the founder of Science with Impact, where we partner with research organizations to translate STEM advancements into measurable societal benefits beyond academia.
🙌🏽 Want to collaborate?
If you know of a research organization seeking support in:
- Measuring (program evaluation, statistics/data analysis, and reporting) or
- Communicating (illustration/animation, data visualization, and presentations)
the impact of their STEM research, click the button below to connect them with Dr. Rosa.
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Thank you for all you do to broaden the societal impacts of STEM research.
Sincerely,
The Team at Science with Impact
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