Hey there, I'm Maddie!

I am a science communicator and journalist. My work is focused on inclusive science communication that helps people make sense of the world around them. 

As a young nerd, I decided to become a scientist after doing field work with hellbender salamanders (it was the mucus for me). I earned my Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Rochester in 2016. During graduate school, I realized I was more interested in helping people communicate their science than doing experiments in a lab. 

I joined NPR as an intern in 2016. Three years later I became the founding host of NPR’s daily science podcast “Short Wave”. The Short Wave team set out to create a science show for everyone, especially those who had been made to feel like science was not for them. 

I reported stories on racism in academia and public health, community-centered science,  as well as the biology of some of the earth’s most fascinating creepy-crawlies. As a queer journalist, I had the immense personal privilege of telling stories that centered the queer community.

Before hosting Short Wave, I hosted the NPR video show "Maddie About Science". I also co-developed the worldwide NPR Scicommers program which supported scientists interested in building their communication skills.

When I’m not working I cook, read nerd books, and frolic in the mountains with my partner Natalie. My pronouns are they/them.