The Mario M. Casabona Future Scientists Program encourages students to recognize the importance of oral communication skills and the ability to discuss the results of scholarship effectively with various audiences and at all levels. The Program motivates, trains and rewards students for the preparation and delivery of effective communication of scientific research to the general public and non-science professionals. Such presentation and communication skills provide students with the capacity to be distinctly competitive and successful in their subsequent educational and career paths. The Program is evolving this semester as we introduce the Casabona Science Slam! The Mario M. Casabona Science Slam competition celebrates the ability to transform complex scientific discoveries into powerful pitches that inspire and engage!
This new competition format celebrates students’ ability to transform complex scientific discoveries into narratives that spark curiosity and understanding in broad audiences. Additionally, all participants will prepare a poster to accompany their presentation. The topic of your presentation will fall into one of the following five thematic categories:
- Newsflash!
- Recent scientific breakthroughs that deserve wider attention.
- Call to Action
- Science stories that highlight the need for change or intervention.
- Unlikely Couples
- Unexpected collaborations that led to scientific innovation.
- How Stuff Works
- Making complex processes accessible and fascinating.
- Science in Unusual Contexts
- Discoveries that emerged from surprising places or situations.
Tuesday, April 15th | 2PM-5:30PM | Center for Environmental and Life Sciences
Frequently Asked Questions
- I haven’t participated in faculty-led research or worked in a lab, can I still participate in the Casabona Science Slam?
- Yes! Unlike our traditional research-based competition, the Casabona Science Slam focuses on science storytelling. In other words, we are looking for students to communicate science in ways that spark curiosity and understanding in others. Your presentation should demonstrate not only your understanding of the scientific story you wish to share but also your ability to craft a presentation that resonates with a broad audience.
- Do I have to apply or be nominated by a faculty member?
- No, there is no formal application or nomination needed. However, all students interested in participating must complete an interest form to let us know they’d like to participate. Complete the interest form.
- How do I choose a topic?
- The most compelling science communicators don’t just inform—they ignite new ways of thinking. You want to think about what aspects of science have inspired and/or captivated you—whether from your coursework, independent reading, personal experiences or elsewhere. The most compelling stories are told by speakers who are passionate about their topic so choose something that excites you!
- Do I have to have my topic confirmed before I submit the interest form?
- Absolutely not! It’s important to complete the interest form as soon as possible, as it allows us to assess student interest in the program, helping us plan more effectively. Although the topic you indicate on your interest form does not have to be the one you end up presenting, you do want to firm up your topic sooner rather than later.
- Does my topic have to be related to my major?
- No. Although your topic must be science based, and you must be pursuing a CSAM major or program, it does not need to be directly connected to your major. For example, if you are majoring in Biology, maybe your topic leans more towards Chemistry. However, your topic does need to fall into one of the following thematic categories:
Newsflash! – Recent scientific breakthroughs that deserve wider attention
Call to Action – Science stories that highlight the need for change or intervention
Unlikely Couples – Unexpected collaborations that led to scientific innovation
How Stuff Works – Making complex processes accessible and fascinating
Science in Unusual Contexts – Discoveries that emerged from surprising places or situations
- I’m having trouble narrowing down my topic, will someone be able to help me flesh out the details and narrow down my choice? What about helping me develop the presentation?
100%! By participating in the Casabona Science Slam, you will receive coaching from seasoned communicators and faculty specializing in science communication. Additionally, you will be invited to participate in a 2 ½ hour workshop with a professional communication consultant to help hone and refine your ideas, presentation skills and confidence.
- How long does my presentation need to be? Is that the only part of the competition?
- In this competition, you’ll craft and give a five-minute compelling presentation. Additionally, all participants will create an informational poster which will be presented during a poster session immediately prior to the oral portion of the event.
- Does the winner of the competition receive a prize?
- Yes! Cash prizes will be awarded to students finishing in first, second and third place; $2000, $1500 and $1000, respectively. Additionally, audience members will vote for the audience favorite award. But that’s not it!
- Not only do the top three presenters win big cash prizes, all participants will have an impressive new highlight to add to their resumés, recognizing excellence in science communication.
- How are the winners chosen?
- A distinguished panel of judges will evaluate students on their ability to transform complex scientific discoveries into interesting and engaging narratives.
- If I’ve participated in the Casabona Future Scientists competition in the past, am I eligible to participate in the science slam?
- Absolutely! This is a new competition focused on effective science storytelling, not presenting research. Both approaches play a vital role in science, and we will host the research-focused Casabona Future Scientists Competition during the fall term.
- When is the Casabona Science Slam happening?
- The competition will be held on Tuesday, April 15th from 2-5:30PM in the Center for Environmental and Life Sciences (CELS) atrium and room 120. A poster session will precede the oral presentations, which will then be followed by an award ceremony. The event will conclude with a reception in the atrium, offering a chance to network with judges, peers and faculty while celebrating your achievement with friends and family.
- What if I have more questions?
- If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the CSAM Dean’s Office via email at csam-deans-office@montclair.edu.