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Scientific Communication &

OUTREACH

I believe that science should be accessible, engaging, and responsive to the needs of local communities. As an ecologist and PhD student, I am passionate about translating research into action, whether through classroom-ready lesson plans, environmental advocacy, or public science communication. My outreach work focuses on connecting scientists, educators, students, and decision-makers, especially around issues like climate change, water quality, and coastal ecosystem resilience.

Below, you’ll find highlights of my leadership in science outreach networks, my involvement in sustainability initiatives at UNC, and my efforts to bring science beyond the lab and into classrooms, communities, and public conversations.

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Leadership & Coordination Roles

I am committed to creating connections between science and the broader community, with a focus on education, sustainability, and environmental justice. Through my involvement in several outreach organizations and university committees, I’ve helped lead efforts that bring research into classrooms, advocate for climate action, and support environmental initiatives across North Carolina.

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Scientific Research and Education Network (SciREN)
Board Member (2022–present)

  • Outreach Coordinator for SciREN Coast (Spring 2022 – 2024): Managed social media campaigns, recruited volunteers, coordinated donations, and supported event planning.

  • Researcher Liaison for SciREN Triangle (Fall 2023 & 2024): Recruited researcher participants, coordinated lesson plan submissions, and prepared materials for K-12 educators.

  • Logistics Coordinator Co-Lead for SciREN Triangle (Fall 2025): Led venue coordination, volunteer assignments, and event preparation in partnership with museum staff.

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Graduate and Professional Student Government (GPSG)
Director of Environmental Affairs (2024–2025)

  • Advising UNC’s Executive Board on sustainability issues and leading advocacy efforts related to energy, climate, and environmental justice for graduate students.

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UNC Climate Crisis Committee (CCC)
Co-chair (Summer 2024–present)

  • Organizing UNC’s Climate Action Day and leading efforts to push for a fossil fuel-free campus.

  • Partnering with student organizations and local communities to implement sustainable initiatives across the region.

  • Collaborating with campus leaders to revise UNC’s Climate Action Plan and promote energy transition strategies.

Community Engagement & Public Outreach

In addition to long-term leadership roles, I regularly participate in outreach events that help communicate science and environmental issues to broader audiences.

  • Communications Committee Member, Phycological Society of America (Dec 2024 – present): Supporting outreach and science communication efforts for a national organization dedicated to the study of algae. Contribute to public-facing content and strategic messaging to promote phycological research and connect scientists across disciplines.

  • Science Fair Judge, Chatham County (Dec 2023): Judged K-12 student projects and provided mentorship and feedback at the district-level science fair.

  • Radio Interview, 97.9 The Hill (June 2024): Represented UNC’s Climate Crisis Committee in a public interview about coal use at UNC and the need for a campus energy transition.

Contact
Information

UNC E3P Graduate Program 

 

leahmnel99@gmail.com

(919) 633-9965

ORCiD: 0000-0001-6704-9923

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