Communications

Fire and Ice communicates with the public through a variety of complementary means, including DEW efforts, economic development partnerships, academic publications and presentations, and stakeholder outreach. Through these venues, F&I disseminates information about project progress to K-12 students; communities in research areas; academics and science professionals; policymakers; and the public.

On an internal level, F&I communications includes a project listserv used to share announcements and opportunities, as well as an online newsletter. F&I participants also communicate via annual All-Hands Meetings that bring together leaders, researchers and students from across the project.

External communications efforts reach a broad and diverse audience through a mix of traditional and new media. F&I also co-sponsors science speakers through the “Science for Alaska” series; holds “Science Pub” events, in which F&I scientists share their research in a relaxed setting; and partners to conduct annual science training workshops for tour guides. These efforts are complemented by a robust online presence, including this website as well as social media posts on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Issuu, and other platforms.

EPSCoR’s communications team has also produced numerous PDFs and videos about the project, highlighted by a lively animated piece explaining hyperspectral imaging that was picked up by the National Science Foundation for nationwide distribution. Communications staff also develop content for the Vis and Dev Space facilities, including virtual reality simulations. One noteworthy Communications effort was the Solstice Game Jam, in which EPSCoR challenged individuals and teams to create video games based on fire and ice themes.

Fire and ice Communications and Data Visualization staff are listed below.