The Iowa NSF EPSCoR Education and Workforce Development (EWD) Seed Grant program is proud to highlight its Round 1 awardees, Jeff Grisamore (University of Iowa) and Dr. Lisa Chizek (Iowa State University), whose distinct projects will advance public understanding of biomanufacturing in Iowa.
Dr. Jeff Grisamore, Professor of Practice at the UI School of Journalism and Mass Communication, has been awarded funding for his project "Content Marketing Strategies to Inform and Inspire Targeted Publics on Biomanufacturing's Impact." Grisamore will guide undergraduate students in creating multimedia content—including explainer videos, social media campaigns, and podcasts—to communicate the significance of biomanufacturing, particularly the Proteins for Diagnostics and Therapeutics (PDT) initiative. This project bridges journalism and science, empowering students to translate complex biomanufacturing concepts for audiences like high school students and community leaders.
Dr. Lisa Chizek, Assistant Professor of Teaching at ISU and the program's first awardee, continues her innovative work with rural high school students. Her project, "Translating Information to Demystify Advanced Biomanufacturing," engages students in researching Chemurgy 2.0 science, conducting lab visits, and producing peer-focused videos. Chizek's approach builds on her prior success in helping students interpret scientific research for broader audiences.
Both projects align with the EWD Seed Grant's mission to foster public engagement with advanced biomanufacturing. However, they target different audiences: Grisamore's work focuses on collegiate-level communication, while Chizek emphasizes K-12 outreach. Notably, the projects will operate independently, reflecting the program's commitment to diverse strategies for workforce development.
"These projects exemplify how interdisciplinary collaboration can demystify science for the public," said EWD Seed Program Committee Chair Marcy Seavey. "Jeff and Lisa are creating pathways for Iowans to connect with groundbreaking research in relatable ways."
The successful completion of Round 1 funding marks an important milestone in Iowa's efforts to promote biomanufacturing education and outreach. The program looks forward to these projects' impact on advancing Iowa's leadership in this crucial field.
For more information about the awarded projects or future opportunities, please contact Marcy Seavey at marcene.seavey@uni.edu.