麻豆AV

The Faculty of Science is honoured to welcome distinguished alumnus聽Dr Frederic Bertley (B.Sc. 1994, Ph.D. 2000; Senior Vice President of Science and Education, The Franklin Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) to deliver the keynote address at the twelfth annual Faculty of Science Undergraduate Research Conference. His talk is entitled:

"A Note to Our Future Scientists: Pay Attention to the Importance of Science in a Growing Clueless Society"

In this presentation, Dr Bertley will discuss the progress of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and the impact of this scientific and technological revolution on our society. Building off of Moore鈥檚 Law, the presentation will showcase cutting edge innovations and discoveries from scientists and engineers around the world that can solve some of the world鈥檚 greatest challenges and provide hope for future generations. From nanotechnology and computer science, to genomics and bio-engineering, Bertley will take you through a tour-de-force of technological advances as well as discuss the myriad of career opportunities with a scientific background. Yet despite these incredible STEM resources, multitude of careers, and the ever-growing dependency on science and technology, society is becoming more and more science illiterate. Dr Bertley discusses this duality and challenges us as a society, especially this next generation of scientists, to care more about 鈥渃itizen science鈥� and science communication and engagement. Basic science literacy skills and a healthy appreciation by society-at-large for the scientific community are critical for a successful 21st century. Undergraduate science students, representing the future of the scientific landscape, are best positioned to respond to this call for science literacy, science communication, and science engagement.

Dr Frederic Bertley

Dr Frederic Bertley is the Senior Vice President of Science and Education at The Franklin Institute (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania), one of the oldest centres of science education and development in the United States. Dr Bertley directs both research-based projects as well as program development and implementation including: Gender & Family Learning; K-12 Professional Development; Learning Technologies; Community Outreach, Youth Programs and The Franklin Institute鈥檚 magnet high school, Science Leadership Academy. Additionally, he directs the prestigious Franklin Awards Program, the long-running Journal of The Franklin Institute and the Institute鈥檚 international efforts including shepherding a USAID supported effort to build 5 STEM platform high schools in Egypt. Dr. Bertley also founded and directs the lauded Color of Science鈩� program which highlights the contributions of women and persons of color to modern day science and engineering.

Dr Bertley holds a B.Sc. and Ph.D., both from 麻豆AV. Prior to The Franklin Institute, he joined a Harvard Medical School HIV Vaccine Research Group, and managed multinational teams in Haiti and Sudan. In addition, Dr. Bertley has lectured or taught classes in several STEM disciplines at the undergraduate and post-graduate levels.

Dr Bertley has received numerous honors including the Harvard Medical School Dean鈥檚 Service Award, Merck Scholarship, The President鈥檚 Award (QBMA) and Philadelphia Business Journal 40 Under 40 Honoree and is a two-time Mid-Atlantic Emmy鈩� winner. Dr. Bertley has keynoted or been an invited speaker at numerous venues including The White House, the US Department of Interior and The United Nations.