Citizen Science Opportunities in Texas

Thousands of people volunteer as citizen scientists, lending their eyes, ears, hands and time to professional scientists conducting all kinds of research around the world. Most citizen science projects require no special skill or knowledge. Some even can be done sitting on your couch with a computer or smartphone. Read about opportunities to contribute in Texas. 

Tracking wildlife for science

In this article for Texas Parks & Wildlife Magazine, I look at some of the animals scientists track in the state and what they're learning from it.

Science by the Sea

Find your inner marine biologist at these Texas destinations, where laboratories, nature reserves, and aquariums offer the chance to learn more about those beaches and bays we all enjoy so much.  Read the full article in Texas Highways Magazine.

What Killed the Corals?

Scientists continue to search for the causes of a mysterious die-off event on the East Bank of the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary in July, 2016. Figuring it out could help protect these reefs in the Gulf of Mexico from future events. Read more here.

Poachers are using scientific papers to find their targets

When scientists publish about the discovery of a new species, or the rediscovery of one thought extinct, their most excited readers are sometimes poachers. An essay in Science argues that sometimes locations should be kept secret to protect plants and animals from collection and, possibly, even extinction. My take on this problem for Mental Floss.

Playing Tag with Sharks

Scientists tag sharks to learn more about their movements and habitat use, which helps identify areas that most need protection. A behind-the-scenes look at a shark tagging expedition off the coast of Florida.

Measuring and tagging a tiger shark.

Making better medicines

Growing high-resolution crystals in space helps scientists develop more efficient and targeted medicines. Read about how this investigation aboard the space station supports structure-based design.

Dissolving Pills in Space

Testing how solids dissolve in space can help scientists develop better medicines for astronauts and the Earth-bound masses. Read about this investigation aboard the space station here.

10 Citizen Science Projects to Try

Scientists need your help - citizen science projects add many hands to the workload. Here are ten projects involving a variety of activities from sticking a gps on your cat to cataloging photos of penguins and the Earth at  night, tagging fish, reading old ship logs, and listening to whale calls. Find out more in this piece for Mental Floss.

Astronaut Photos Inspiring Next Generation of Scientists

Students are using images of Earth taken by astronauts aboard the International Space Station for research projects. Read more about it here.

Cool science

My story on five cool discoveries and announcements from the Austin science world in 2013, from distant galaxies to seahorses.