Title: Is science for everyone: A Cross-cultural perspective 
Date & time: 26 September 2022 at 1pm
Presenter: Dr Sean Perera
Location: Building 138, Chemistry, Room 3.105, Seminar Room
Abstract: Global discourses aimed at popularising science encourage equal participation across all groups of the community. National agendas applaud the economic benefits of these efforts. In Australia, for example, federal government policies have recognised the scientific innovation potential of immigrants from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. Is science, however, meant for everyone? More importantly, do all groups of the community have equal opportunities to participate in science? 

True to the objectives of the IDEAS Seminar Series, which aims to build on prior knowledge while deconstructing the traditional model of dissemination, the present talk aims to collectively unpack scientific participation from cross-cultural lenses. It will share evidence from an initiative to promote science to humanitarian migrants in Australia. The talk aims to collectively interrogate the inherency of unequal participation in science.

About the Speaker:
Dr Sean Perera is presently an Academic Sub Dean at the ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences. His research in critical transculturalism explores intersectional communication among educators and learners from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. 
Sean holds a PhD in science communication from ANU. Prior to which, he worked as a research scientist in Sri Lanka. He holds a triple major bachelor’s degree in microbiology, chemistry and zoology, and a master’s degree in Agriculture.
Among his significant achievements are the ANU Colleges of Science Citation for Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning (2015); ANU Vice-Chancellor's Award for Public Policy and Outreach (2015); and the Australian Federal Government’s Inspiring Australia Research Fellowship (2012).