Hooked on Science: Sharing Research Through Radio

Written By: Dominic Javonillo, PhD Candidate

In the lab, it may feel like academic research is a repetitive cycle: you generate data, you publish and share your findings with the scientific community, you apply for research funding to generate more data, and the cycle repeats. But there is a vital factor that propels that cycle forward: engaging with the wider public. These include taxpayers, voters, and in some cases even participants in translational and clinical research. All are beneficiaries for the work that we do as researchers in the science community. How can trainees help a divided public get hooked on cool and impactful science?

I found an opportunity to address this dilemma in writing scripts for a public radio show called The Loh Down on Science! This daily science minute radio segment is hosted by Sandra Tsing Loh, a scientist turned actor who now helps UCI trainees bring science news to wider audiences through humor and her unique insight. At The Loh Down, I was able to find, highlight, and write about cool, groundbreaking research from around the world for Sandra to broadcast to non-science audiences via public radio! Across two years, I have written scripts for Loh Down distilling research from a diverse range of scientific fields including animal behavior, climate migration, and even astronomy. There have been several memorable scripts where I specifically spotlit research findings that impact marginalized and historically underserved communities, which help promote to audiences the broader societal impact of scientific research. Furthermore, Sandra’s training in humor and style helped develop my science communication skills to appeal and relate with broader audiences more effectively.

I found my scripts widely broadcast and shared all around Southern California through both LAist 89.3 and NPR. This provided writers like me with MILLIONS of listeners across the country on over 60 public radio stations and streaming/podcasting sites! Beyond reaching these listeners through radio, writing for Loh Down may also shift their attitudes and opinions on scientific research. Several studies have demonstrated that connecting general audiences with the impacts of research advancements through humor and relatable anecdotes helps audiences reconsider their perspective on scientific research and broaden support for these fields. Through these forms of science engagement, we can help get the public hooked on science!

Now, I will be leading a team of managing editors to help new and returning writers develop their own scripts for Sandra to share with listeners!

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The Loh Down on Science is now hiring writers for this upcoming round! No prior experience is needed! To apply, you can scan the QR on the flyer or use tinyurl.com/LDOS-SQ25. Eligible applicants must be a UCI graduate student and in good academic standing. Applications must be submitted by April 18, 2025. You can contact us through LohDownOnScience@uci.edu for questions. Content is co-produced LDOS MediaLab, Inc. and LAist 89.3 in association with the University of California, Irvine Science Communications.

Author’s Bio: Dominic Javonillo (he/they) is a PhD candidate in Dr. Thomas Lane’s lab where he studies the interaction between Alzheimer’s disease pathology and viral-induced inflammation within the brain. Dominic finds joy in engaging with the public about scientific research and is actively open to opportunities that bridge the two communities together.