“Science on Wheels” events

Columbia, MO

Science on Wheels (SoW) is a graduate student-led organization that connects scientists with communities across Missouri. Through partnerships with local organizations, SoW hosts public events featuring 3–6 short talks by graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. These events are designed to make science accessible, spark curiosity, and build bridges between scientists and the general public.

As a postdoctoral fellow, I had the opportunity to join SoW and share my research with audiences beyond the University community. My very first event was in October 2020, the first-ever virtual Science on Wheels event, organized for the Columbia Public Schools. This marked an exciting moment as we adapted to new ways of reaching people during the pandemic.

Since then, I’ve participated in various other events. In December 2021, I joined a group of graduate students speaking to the Columbia Rotary Club. The audience—senior professionals and retirees—was full of curious minds who asked thoughtful questions about our work.

The following March (2022), I gave an in-person presentation at the Lenoir Woods Senior Living Community. It was a heartwarming experience; the residents were excited to hear about science and genuinely eager to connect with a scientist.

Now, as the Goyes Lab grows and I have transitioned from postdoc to PI, I’m thrilled to see the graduate students in the lab carrying the torch. Last October (2024), Natalia Mejía and Sebastián Curaca participated in SoW’s “Science en Español” event at the Daniel Boone Regional Library in Columbia, MO. They gave a community talk entitled “Ranas: un salto a conocer su importancia” (“Frogs: a leap into understanding their importance”), sharing their research and passion for amphibians with local Spanish-speaking audiences. Engaging with the Hispanic community in CoMO is a meaningful step toward making science inclusive and relevant for all.