Emily L. Howell, PhD

I'm working with filmmakers at the production company Science Communication Lab to figure out how storytelling and showing how science actually works (the very human nature of science) can make for more interesting and engaging science films. I also collaborate with the Civic Science Fellows program in designing their learning curriculum to connect interdisciplinary research and practice on addressing societal challenges. 

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Connecting social science research and film-making –

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In collaboration with filmmakers at the Science Communication Lab, we're developing an iterative research process in film production and design to experiment with ways of communicating complex science and social issues with diverse audiences. Some key questions include: what are the impacts of storytelling and emotion on perceptions and interest in science-related topics? how can we better convey the nature of science -- or how science actually works -- in stories about science? and what happens when people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives are the ones telling the stories in science film?

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We have several on-going projects, including a National Science Foundation-funded project developing short films for formal and informal education and a collaboration funded by the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation to create a  documentary film that builds research into the production and design choices.

 

Civic science research and learning program Development –

                           

Since Civic Science Fellows Program began in 2019, I've been helping build the learning program, which brings together topics and experts from practice and research across science and civic life: journalism, policy making, scientific research, community engagement, advocacy, religious organizations, philanthropies, and many others. In addition to creating opportunities for learning across the many different topics Civic Science Fellows work in, the learning program also focuses on creating relationships between people working in these many different sectors to support future collaboration and innovation.

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After heading the work for three years, I'm now supporting development of a sustainable structure and ways of sharing the insights and resources more widely beyond the fellowship. This work is funded by and involves partnering with the Rita Allen Foundation and Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation, in collaboration with the Kavli Foundation, the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation.