Dr. Joel Hoffman belongs to a generation of scientists who are seeing many shifts, in their
research, their opportunities for outreach, and how the two are being combined. The fields of
marine biology and oceanography are in general becoming more interdisciplinary, and Joel's
approach to his research – a combination of chemist and biologist – means he is starting from
a more synthetic perspective.
"Outreach is part of my research." |
Through enhanced technological capabilities knowledge is being shared more quickly and on a global scale,
allowing scientists to collaborate with almost anyone, anywhere. And an increased sense of urgency about
solving regional and global environmental problems – both on the part of scientists and the public – is
creating a greater need for scientists like Joel to actively communicate with the public and with
stakeholders. Joel sees his research and his outreach activities as being parts of the same picture. With
this new perspective comes both challenges and opportunities.
Those whose perspectives you will encounter in Viewpoints are:
|
Rosanne Fortner, Ph.D.
COSEE Great Lakes Director
(featured in Cultural Change) |
|
Connecting to Viewpoints from Additional Featured Scientists |