Barry University faculty and undergraduate students recently created a stimulating social event called Hops for Science, which brought together scientists and students from across South Florida.
Hops for Science was the brainchild of faculty members Dr. Zuzana Zajickova from the Department of Physical Sciences and Dr. Michael Robinson from Biology, and Barry students Lilyveth Mesa and Taila Garrett. Their idea was to create an environment where anyone interested in science could come together, socialize, and engage in brief discussions about the various research projects happening in South Florida.
The first-ever Hops for Science on March 24 brought scientists from five local universities to the Invasive Species Brewery in Fort Lauderdale, a brewery created and co-owned by Barry biology alumnus Phil Gillis. Approximately 60 people listened to and mingled with six guest speakers, who connected their research with everyday life, while addressing issues related to the environmental and health through social issues. Among the speakers was 2018 Barry alumna Diana Dumit, who is currently working on her doctorate at MIT.
Additional speakers included:
- Arthur Sikora, assistant professor of biochemistry at Nova Southeastern University
- Rindy Anderson, assistant professor of biology at Florida Atlantic University
- Rudi Ettrich, professor of biophysics and president/CEO of Larkin University
- John Berry, associate professor of chemistry at Florida International University
- Maurizio Giannotti, professor of physics at Barry University
Hops for Science acknowledges the kind financial support provided by the South Florida Chapter of the American Chemical Society.