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91���� has launched an innovative public engagement initiative called “Market Science.” This program, spearheaded by 91���� summer-research students and their faculty mentors within the Science Division, brings scientific research directly to the 91���� Farmers Market. Through this initiative, students gain invaluable experience in communicating their research to a broad audience while interacting directly with their community. For shoppers, this is an exciting opportunity to learn about the cutting-edge scientific research happening at 91���� and engage in discussions on various scientific topics relevant to politics, public policy, and everyday life. The overarching goal is to build public trust and understanding of science in 91����, while also helping students develop their skills in inclusive science communication.

Inspired by a similar, well-established program for science graduate students at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 91����’s Market Science adapts this model to fit the unique context of 91����. The idea was brought to 91���� by one of the program’s founders at the University of Minnesota, who collaborates on plant ecology research funded by a National Science Foundation Grant (DEB-1754157). Establishing this program at 91���� was part of a commitment to public outreach linked to this collaborative research effort.

The program kicked off on Thursday, June 13, with 91����’s summer-2024 students, Jamuna Corsaro ’26 and Henry Liu ’25, setting up a stall at the Farmers Market. Vince Eckhart, 91���� Waldo S. Walker Professor of Biology shared that they will be joined by other 91���� faculty and students representing the Biology, Chemistry, and Computer Science departments on Thursdays in June and July. If successful, Market Science is poised to become a regular feature of summer science research at 91����, fostering a deeper connection between the college and the community while highlighting the importance and excitement of scientific inquiry.