Not-for-profit organization

We envision a future where there is greater public awareness of how scientific research in general, and biomedical research in particular, progresses. While members of the general public benefit from scientific advances, they are often unaware of the processes by which new discoveries are made or the ethical guidelines that govern the responsible conduct of research.

Our vision is of a highly scientifically literate population; one that can consider and weigh evidence, analyze information critically, approach science without trepidation or superstition, and recognize the central importance of the scientific enterprise for our region.

We promote an understanding of the role of science in society. The need for our citizens to understand science and its connection to contemporary social issues is not only fundamental to Washington’s effort to prepare a 21st century workforce, but also to prepare a public that is increasingly faced with difficult decisions about the applications of scientific discoveries.

Our vision is science education that is rigorous and relevant – that not only brings our citizens a more complete picture of what science is, but provides a foundation for understanding the promises and challenges brought about by the interaction of science with society. We support science education that encourages and nurtures our future scientists and that empowers all Washingtonians to better understand science and its role in our lives.

At our core, the Northwest Association for Biomedical Research (NWABR) invites, equips and connects biomedical scientists with citizens of all ages. This work bears fruit in the lives of scientists; in the speaking and mentorship skills they obtain, as well as in awakening their desire to share the importance of science with people outside their workplace; it bears fruit among students whose interaction with scientists spurs them to organize science cafés for their peers and to pursue science careers.

Promoting the importance of science education among the general public
Spokane Science Café was launched in October 2008 and reaches a monthly audience of scientists and non scientists who dialog informally with an expert, exchanging ideas and information on everything from obesity to arsenic tainted tap water and bioterrorism. Organizer Laurie Hassell remarked, “While the scientist explained his work, a much subtler and highly important revelation was occurring. Passion and commitment, determination and creativity were fused into a foundation upon which members of the audience connected their own experiences and better understood the importance of biomedical research.”

Clinical and Translational Science Partnerships include evolving relationships with the community groups such Seattle Gilda’s Club and Union Church. Both groups participated as community exhibitors at our 2008 Speakers’ Training and because of their powerful experiences with scientists are working with NWABR to develop symposia and science series for the general public. Notably, both will focus on the translational nature of science (the spectrum of activities from basic research to the application of new technologies to the public) to help the public better understand the stages of scientific advancement as well as the ethical issues that arise in research..

Enabling and influencing others to act in the interests of science education and its reform
Our Speakers’ Bureau assembles and trains scientists who volunteer to speak to student and community groups throughout Washington State on a variety of subjects from career paths to genetics to prosthetics. By equipping scientists to speak to public audiences in a way that captures their attention with salient stories, NWABR increases public awareness about the importance and relevance of science. Since our founding in 1989, the Bureau has reached over 25,000 Northwest citizens.

Another touchpoint for NWABR’s cadre of trained volunteers is the Student Bio Expo. In its 9th year, the Expo is a novel program that engages high school students in creative ways to demonstrate their understanding of the life sciences, and connects them to mentor-scientists. Each year, hundreds of scientific mentors from area research institutions forge connections with science students. The Expo enriches student scientific understanding and strengthens Seattle’s bioscience community. Expo participants have gone on to win awards at other regional and national science fairs and have launched a science café for their peers at Garfield High School. As one Expo student participant noted, “The Student Bio Expo was one of the best experiences I’ve had in high school. The ability to meet with a scientific professional and collaborate and experience what current research is like was very inspiring.”

Seeking out new and diverse participants and/or investors in science education
In 2007, NWABR invited program participation by members of University of Washington’s Society for the Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) chapter. Following the model of their chapter president, six ethnically diverse science graduate students joined our Speakers’ Bureau and are mentoring Bio Expo students during the 2008-09 school year. By involving these graduate students in two of our most prominent programs we expose young people to scientists with whom they can identify, increasing the odds that they will in turn seek careers in scientific fields.