About the Workshop
Humor, magic, and the scientific method each work by establishing an expectation, formulating an implicit or explicit hypothesis about what will happen next, and then breaking (in the case of humor and magic) or testing (in the case of science) that expectation to yield surprise, delight, and insight.
Studies have shown that humor and art – beyond being useful devices for communication – can improve understanding of scientific concepts and retention of that knowledge. Interestingly, metaphor – a foundational concept that humor and magic often build on - can also be considered a scientific tool, one that "can enable scientists to visualize the invisible, bringing into focus useful details while blurring others" (Matteo Farinella).
The ability to communicate our science to other scientists, and to taxpayers who fund our research, is an important and, in many ways, underappreciated skill. Being able to communicate the excitement of your scientific problem, the importance of solving it, and its wider societal impact is foundational to a successful career in science—nearly as important as the science itself.
— Workshop Philosophy
When used judiciously in science communication, humor, magic, and art can greatly increase engagement, interest, and even knowledge retention for the audience – no matter if it's fellow researchers or if it's your uncle Sid (a taxpayer, he tells you) at the Thanksgiving dinner table.
✨ Experience the Magic of Surprise! ✨
Pick a card, any card! Then click "Reveal the Magic" to see if science can read your mind...
Just like in science, the "magic" here works through careful observation and a bit of misdirection!
Workshop Objectives
By the end of this workshop, you will have gained new perspectives and practical skills:
Learn ways to improve your science communication through humor and magic
Understand when and where to include these approaches for maximum impact
Discuss potential challenges and how to navigate them appropriately
Explore how these concepts can serve as tools for scientific exploration
Create your own science comic and learn a magic trick with a science basis
Enjoy a fun and engaging workshop experience with fellow scientists
Workshop Format
The workshop combines education with hands-on experience:
🎤 Part 1: Talks & Presentations
The organizers and invited speakers will outline the use of art and humor in science communication and magic as a metaphor for presentation skills. Q&A periods follow each talk.
🎨 Part 2: Draw Your Science Comic
Guided exercise where participants create their own comic about their science – no artistic skill required!
🪄 Part 3: Learn a Magic Trick
Learn a magic trick with a scientific basis that you can use in your own presentations.
💬 Part 4: Open Discussion
Discuss your own ideas about science communication in a receptive, fun, and informal environment.
Workshop Organizers
Jason McDermott, PhD
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Creator of @redpenblackpen webcomic, treats science & academia with a satirical eye
Jonathan Chen, MD, PhD
Stanford University
Practicing magician who incorporates magic into academic presentations