‘Kate the Chemist’ joins the University of Notre Dame
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Kate Biberdorf, popularly known as “Kate the Chemist,” has been appointed professor for the public understanding of science at the University of Notre Dame’s College of Science.
The university said Thursday that the newly created faculty position is designed to enhance the college’s visibility both nationally and internationally, facilitate the public understanding of science and foster effective collaborations to expand the reach and impact of Notre Dame’s research and scholarship.
“Dr. Biberdorf’s appointment reflects the College of Science’s commitment to fostering a deeper public appreciation of and engagement with science,” Santiago Schnell, dean of the College of Science, said in a news release. “Our goal is to bridge the gap between scientific communities and the general public, ensuring scientific knowledge is widely disseminated and valued by society at large.”
Biberdorf is known for her “edutainment” approach to science communication and being able to break down complex scientific concepts. She holds a doctorate in chemistry and has been featured by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Kelly Clarkson Show and The Today Show.
“I am incredibly honored to join the faculty of Notre Dame this fall. My goal is to raise the public understanding of science, and I’m optimistic that the brand-new scientific engagement makerspace will help to highlight and amplify the groundbreaking research happening on campus,” Biberdorf said. “With a little help from fire and explosions, we will elevate Notre Dame’s standing in the worldwide scientific community.”
Driving public engagement with Notre Dame’s scientific inventions is a key goal of the new role, the university said.
The college-wide strategy will see Biberdorf assess current engagement levels, identify stakeholders and craft a game plan to increase public awareness and engagement with innovations from the College of Science.
“Her expertise, passion and dynamic approach to science communication will foster a deeper appreciation of science while inspiring the next generation of scientists,” Schnell said. “We also believe that the professor for the public understanding of science can provide the training, tools and platform needed to help our faculty, postdoctoral fellows and students connect their work to society and make it relevant to people’s everyday lives.”
Biberdorf joins Notre Dame after 10 years at the University of Texas at Austin. She is expected to step into the role in September.