Inclusive science communication with Tamara Poles (Episode 87) – Tamara helps scientists bring their authentic selves to their research and outreach activities
For this episode of the Research Adjacent podcast Sarah is joined by science communicator Tamara Poles. Tamara is the founder and CEO of Universal SciCom, an organisation based in North Carolina, USA, and working remotely worldwide. Universal SciCom helps people learn, do and experience excellent science communication.
Sarah and Tamara talk about
- Why representation and inclusion in science communication matters
- Sharing science and building community through unconventional formats including the ‘SCIrens’ drag and burlesque show and adults-only ‘Uncensored Science’
- Helping researchers connect to audiences through their own personal story, not just their science
- Navigating funding cuts and the anti-science narrative in current US politics
This episode was first released in February 2026 which is both LGBT+ History Month in the UK, and Black History Month in the USA. As a black lesbian woman who champions representation and inclusion in science communication, Tamara was the perfect guest to feature this month.
Timestamps
- 00:00 Why Personal Story Matters in Science Communication
- 00:48 Welcome to Research Adjacent + Meet Tamara Poles (Universal SciCom)
- 03:10 What Universal SciCom Does: Training, Workshops & Outreach
- 06:20 Making SciComm Inclusive: Authenticity, Representation & ‘SCIrens’ Drag Science
- 10:31 Tamara’s Career Journey: From Biology Labs to Museums to Building Universal SciCom
- 15:34 The Core Skills: Imposter Syndrome, Storytelling & the ‘Why Do I Care?’ Test
- 18:14 Anti-Science Narratives: You Can’t Fight Passion with Data
- 20:27 Funding Cuts & the Pivot to Community Events (Uncensored Science, Shark Tagging)
- 26:10 Magic Wand Wish: Teaching Mental Health & Emotional Intelligence Like PE
- 31:12 Where to Find Tamara + Closing Credits
Find out more
- Connect with Tamara on LinkedIn
- Find out more about Universal SciCom via their website, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn pages
- Sign up for the Universal SciCom newsletter
Events mentioned in this episode
- Research Adjacent Community Networking (Manchester) Thu 12 March 2026, 5.30pm UK time. Find out more and sign up
Theme music by Lemon Music Studios from Pixabay
