Stronger Together: Finding Community in Science and Art

April 2025, Universal SciCom host the Triangle area’s first and most diverse science-themed drag and burlesque show, SCIrens.

Hi everyone! 

The word "unprecedented" has lost its meaning after all the extraordinary times we have survived. "Survived” being the key word. As the leader of Universal SciCom, I've also navigated the harsh impact of budget cuts and legislation, putting me in the same survival mode as my peers. I've wondered where our mission to empower science communicators fits when the very foundation of science feels under attack and professionals are simply fighting to keep their research afloat. All of us scientists, STEM professionals, science communicators, and educators, have been doing our best to survive in an extremely unpredictable climate. In times like these, it’s helpful to remember that what’s always endured is community, and a resilient community is what will pull us through.

We've been hosting more community events lately, and it's no accident. In tumultuous times, one of the most powerful ways to persevere is by providing a safe, supportive community for those who feel isolated. By creating spaces where like-minded people can gather, we remind each other that we are not alone. It's in these environments that friendships are forged, grassroots initiatives are born, and movements begin.

I figured, why not infuse these spaces with science? Science and the humanities have been under attack, even though they are the very backbone of our culture and society. With layoffs and changing public sentiment, it’s easy for scientists and academics to feel like we are losing our community. Our programs and events center these populations, and provide the platforms that we have so often been denied, all while placing STEM education at the core of the conversation.

Enter "SCIrens: The Science-Themed Drag and Burlesque Show”, taking place on September 20th. This event brilliantly combines the worlds of art and academia, featuring drag performers (over half of whom are real scientists) who use their performance and personality to make complex scientific ideas accessible to everyone. Get ready for a Duke Chemistry graduate slated to give a stunning performance on polymers, and a current Wake Tech student teach you everything you need to know about vaccinations and phlebotomy. We have an environmental scientist taking the stage twice to illustrate herpetology and electricity’s impact on weather! And don’t forget it’s all in DRAG!

We anticipate that the audience will come for the entertainment but leave with a sense of community and a replenishment of their love of science. 

Universal SciCom is about creating accessible spaces where people can learn, do, and experience science communication. No matter how we pursue this goal, our work is always driven by a core commitment to building and supporting a safe community. Join us!