Vanessa loves outreach and enjoys speaking to a wide variety of demographics about science.
School outreach is one of Vanessa’s favourite and most memorable types of outreach:
Talking drones, whale snot and was asked about whale reproduction to years 3-6 at McCallums Hill Public School, Sydney.
“INTRIGUED & INSPIRED - Such an amazing and motivating presentation about scientific research 🐳 Thank you @VanessaPirotta ”
A wonderful recount of my presentation by a year two student.
“My (Year 2) son’s written recount on your presentation and probably the most interesting thing I’ve ever read on the subject of mucus. Thank you for visiting our school and making science fun for him. (Btw - I think that’s you in the pink top and purple shoes!) #whalesnot”
National and international outreach examples
Deadly Science
Vanessa regularly speaks with Deadly Science students around Australia.
#WithSTEMYouCan CSIRO
Vanessa hosted a webinar panel for year 11 and 12 students interested in STEM careers. She also spoke with teachers, parents and guardians about inspiring young minds.
Regional outreach
Lending a science communication hand to the Australian Museum. Vanessa took time out of her research schedule to help teach biological diversity subjects to over 300 year 11 school students in Coffs Harbour, Australia.
Skype-A-Scientist
Skype with grade 5 at Concordian International School in Bangkok, Thailand. Vanessa spoke all about ocean pollution with the students.
Skype with Kambala Girls School, Sydney
Vanessa spoke about innovation, technology and whale research with a very enthusiastic group of students.
Skype-A-Scientist
Skype with year 11 and 12 students at Cedars Christian College, New South Wales. Photo credit: Cedars Christian College.
Skype-A-Scientist
Skype with American International School of Guangzhou, China.
Skype-A-Scientist
Skype with year 8, Kingsway Christian College Perth, Western Australia.
Local outreach
Insect study with Lane Cove Public School, Sydney
Vanessa carried out a series of insect experiments with 60 students from Lane Cove Public school as a CSIRO STEM professional in schools and the recipient of the NSW OEH and ESA outreach award.
Questacon, Canberra
Bringing the ocean to the bush capital. Vanessa thoroughly enjoyed going back to Canberra and telling school children all about her research.
Questacon photos by Peter Smith/LightSmith Productions.