Science Talk '21 Speaker series: Lisa Wald

Welcome to the Science Talk Blog’s Meet the Science Talk ‘21 Speaker series! Each week we will highlight some of our exciting speakers. Registration for Science Talk ‘21 is now open!

Photo courtesy of Lisa Wald

Lisa is a Science Communicator at the U.S. Geological Survey. She is a science communicator, web designer, and web content manager and creator for several U.S. Geological Survey hazards groups. She started with a Master's degree in Geophysics and was a research scientist for 12 years, after which she created an Outreach and Education Program in the Pasadena, CA Earthquake Hazards Program Field Office. Her favorite current project is writing web articles targeted for non-scientists about new hazards research within the USGS.

She will be leading the workshop “Visual Design for Science Communicators” (limited seating) on Friday, March 26. The full agenda is available on the Science Talk website.

Get to know Lisa

What are your short term or long term goals as a science communicator?

As a child, I was always curious and always asking questions. My innate curiosity led me to an education in science… earth science. Science has given me an appreciation, respect, and reverence for the natural world and its vital importance to our planet. It has made me realize that all things are connected, and all decisions must be made with that in mind. My goal as a science communicator is to share my enthusiasm and respect for nature with as many people as possible. My hope is that more people will see science and the interconnectedness of everything as the foundation of a happy and successful future for our planet and every living thing on it.

What advice would give a new science communicator? 

Don’t give in and don’t give up. Many scientists and managers are just beginning to understand the importance of communicating science to non-scientists. It’s often not a priority for a scientific agency. Many people don’t understand that it takes education, practice, and skill to communicate science in an interesting and effective way, so your talents and products will not always be appreciated as they ought to be. I’ve found, however, that it just takes that one person who appreciates what you do and tells you so, to keep you going. There will always be that person, and that will make a difference.

Morning person or night owl?

​Neither! If I had to pick, though, I’d say I’m a morning person. I love getting up early and watching the day begin for the animals and birds in our yard.