The idea to host a Science on Tap series in Houghton began as a conversation around a bonfire between a few friends – botanists and researchers – who were reflecting on the isolating nature of scientific research. Research topics are too often highly specialized, and sharing one\\\’s findings can be hard to do outside of your immediate circle of peers. That said, we believe there is immense value in making science and research accessible to all, so everyone has a chance to be curious and learn. But communicating these complex ideas can come with all sorts of barriers. For instance, who, outside of faculty, wants to sit on a PhD dissertation defense?

Eager to bridge the gap between the research community and the Houghton community, these friends envisioned creating a different kind of space – one that will be casual, welcoming, and open to anyone who’s curious. A space where questions are encouraged, ideas are shared freely, and jargon is kept to a minimum. Science on Tap was born from that vision.

The idea for Science on Tap did not start here in Houghton. In fact there are many cities nationwide with a similar talk series. In nearby Marquette, members of the biology department at Northern Michigan University have been hosting a successful Science on Tap series for over a decade. The goal in bringing this series to Houghton is simple: to connect local community members with scientists, researchers, and professionals of all kinds – people who live and work here – through engaging, informal conversations about topics that matter.

So, what can you expect at a Science on Tap event? Talks will be held at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month at Nutinis Supper Club in Hancock. Attendees are encouraged to enjoy a beverage, or order dinner, and settle in as local researchers share their work or professional experience. These events are family friendly and open to all. Most importantly, these talks are not lectures! Our speakers aim to be casual, keep scientific lingo to a minimum, invite audience questions, and participate in open discussion.

The first event kicks off on Sept. 9 with David Flaspohler, Dean of Michigan Tech’s College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science. He will be sharing stories from his research on Hawaii’s birds, and discussing how climate change and invasive species are reshaping their populations. If you’re curious about birding, changing ecosystems, or research in general, come grab a seat – we’d love to see you there!

If there are specific topics that you want to hear more about, folks that you want to nominate as speakers, or if you yourself have something you care to share, reach out at ScienceOnTapHoughton@gmail.com, and follow our socials on Facebook (Science on Tap Houghton) and Instagram (@SOT_Houghton).