Megan K. Halpern

Dr. Megan K. Halpern is an Associate Professor at Lyman Briggs College, Michigan State University, where she also serves as the founding Director of the Center for Interdisciplinary Research, Collaboration, Learning, and Engagement (CIRCLE). Her work bridges art-science studies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and public engagement with science, often incorporating feminist frameworks and design-based methodologies.

• Education: PhD in Science Communication, Cornell University; MS in Communication, Cornell University; BA in Studio Art, Smith College

Dr. Halpern’s research explores how science is perceived through experiential and narrative lenses, emphasizing the role of emotion and identity in science communication. She also investigates the complexities of art-science collaborations and the ethical dynamics of interdisciplinary work.

Her publications span topics like science as experience (2022), feminist standpoint theory (2019), and the cultural implications of science storytelling (2019). These works reflect her broader interest in democratizing science and integrating creative practices into scientific discourse.

• Scientific Awards: 2021-22 Lilly Fellow, Michigan State University

Dr. Halpern has secured grants such as the MSU HARP development grant (2019-2021) for her book manuscript and multiple Science and Society @ State (S3) grants to develop courses and research initiatives. She previously co-founded Redshift Productions, a theater company focused on science-inspired performances.