Welcome to Science Spotlight, the official podcast of the Purdue Fort Wayne College of Science. Join us in conversations with our innovative faculty, dedicated staff, and ambitious students as we explore the fascinating world of science right here on our campus. Each episode will shed light on groundbreaking research, unique academic journeys, and the many opportunities that shape the vibrant environment at PFW. If you are passionate about science, seek inspiration from unique experiences, or are curious about the exciting work that fuels our campus, we invite you to join us on this journey!
Wild Science: Bats, Zoos, and Conservation with Dr. Scott Bergeson
🦇 What can bats, zoos, and hands-on learning teach us about conservation?
In this episode of Science Spotlight: PFW, Dean Ron Friedman sits down with Dr. Scott Bergeson from the Department of Biological Sciences to discuss his research, his fascinating work with bats, and PFW’s Zoo Immersion course in partnership with the Fort Wayne Zoo.
Tune in to learn how Dr. Bergeson brings research beyond the classroom and gives students the opportunity to experience biology and conservation in action! 🔬🌿
🎧 Listen to the full episode now!
10 Sept 2026
From Curiosity to Career: Dr. Jordan Marshall’s Journey in Biology
Dr. Jordan Marshall from the Department of Biological Sciences sits down with College of Science Dean Ron Friedman for a conversation about his journey in biology, his work at Purdue Fort Wayne, and the people and experiences that have shaped his career.
\Tune in to get to know Dr. Marshall and hear how his passion for science continues to inspire his work with PFW students! 🧬🔬
3 Mar 2026
From PFW to the United Nations: Endangered Languages, Advocacy, and Global Impact
In this episode of Science Spotlight, we welcome Dr. Shannon Bischoff and Dr. Mary Encabo Bischoff for a conversation that connects local classrooms to global advocacy.
Dr. Mary Encabo Bischoff shares how her background in international educational development led her to direct the Tunnel Program (Teaching English as a New Language), supporting multilingual learners and preparing future English language educators.
Dr. Shannon Bischoff discusses his work in mathematical, computational, and linguistic anthropology, focusing on Indigenous and lesser-studied languages. His research and advocacy led to partnerships with the United Nations and UNESCO, including Purdue University Fort Wayne serving as a sponsor during the 2019 International Year of Indigenous Languages.
The episode explores how scholarship, human rights advocacy, refugee community engagement, and international collaboration intersect. From hosting global leaders and Indigenous delegates on campus to connecting Southeast Asian communities with local students, this conversation highlights how academic research can extend far beyond the classroom.
4 Sept 2025
Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Amy Perkins
In this episode of Science Spotlight, we sit down with Dr. Amy Perkins to explore the fascinating world of psychology. From behavior to brain function, discover how researchers use animal models to uncover the secrets of learning, memory, and development.
16 Jun 2025
Lessons, Labs, and Leadership: Recent Graduates Reflect on Their Time at PFW
Dean Friedman interviews recent Purdue Fort Wayne science graduates Manal Ali, Surraya Wagner, and Liv Hope, who reflect on their academic journeys and how the college shaped their confidence and future aspirations.
27 May 2025
Science Spotlight PFW: From Rock Formations to the Provost’s Office — Dr. Carl Drummond’s Journey in Geoscience
Dean Friedman interviews Dr. Carl Drummond, Provost and Vice Chancellor, who recounts his journey from a fascination with rocks to a career in geoscience, highlighting the importance of passion and persistence.
14 May 2025
Turtle Talk with Dr. Frank Paladino
Join us as we dive into the life and work of Dr.Frank Paladino, Jack W. Schrey Distinguished Professor of Biology at Purdue University Fort Wayne. With over 35 years dedicated to the study and conservation of leatherback sea turtles, Dr. Paladino shares insights from his groundbreaking research in Costa Rica, his role in establishing the Las Baulas National Marine Park, and the ongoing challenges these ancient marine reptiles face in a changing world. Discover how science, passion, and perseverance converge in the fight to save one of the ocean's most majestic creatures.
3 Mar 2025
Unearthing the Past with Drs. Bergeson, Dattilo, and Farlow
In this episode of Science Spotlight: PFW, we dive into the world of paleontology with Drs. Ben Dattilo, James Farlow, and Scott Bergeson. Join us as we explore their groundbreaking research, the thrilling discovery of mastodon bones in Indiana, and how these incredible fossils found their way to the PFW campus. Discover what these ancient remains reveal about our prehistoric past and the work being done to preserve them for future generations.
24 Jan 2025
Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Patrick Murphy
Join us in this episode as we chat with Dr. Patrick Murphy, a proud PFW alumnus and new faculty member. Dr. Murphy shares his journey from growing up in a rural community to discovering his passion for psychology and realizing his dream of working in higher education. We also dive into his return to PFW, his current research, and his advice for aspiring psychologists. This is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
18 Dec 2024
Exploring Minds and Breaking Boundaries with Dr. Michelle Drouin
Dr. Michelle Drouin shares her groundbreaking work in forensic psychology, cutting-edge research, and compelling storytelling, offering insights into the human mind that will leave you informed and intrigued.
3 Dec 2024
Faculty Spotlight: Alessandro Selvitella - Data Science Specialist
In this episode of Science Spotlight: Purdue Fort Wayne, we dive into the fascinating world of data science. Join us as we chat with Alessandro Selvitella, a data science expert in Purdue Fort Wayne's Math department. Discover how data shapes the world around us, from predicting trends to solving real-world problems. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about this rapidly growing field, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss!
26 Nov 2024
Faculty Spotlight: Jolene Lawton and the Parkinsons Speech Therapy Clinic
Purdue Fort Wayne's Jolene Lawton discusses how her Speak Out Communication Disorders Clinic is transforming lives through innovative speech therapy and hands-on student education.
14 Nov 2024
Welcome to Science Spotlight!
In our debut episode of Science Spotlight: Purdue Fort Wayne, we’re excited to introduce you to the mission behind the podcast and the inspiring vision for the College of Science. Join Dean Ron Friedman as he shares his background, journey to Purdue Fort Wayne, and his passion for fostering a thriving scientific community. Discover what motivated the launch of this podcast and what you can look forward to in upcoming episodes.
Get ready to connect with the stories and groundbreaking research that make the College of Science at PFW truly exceptional!
Who has been a guest on Science Spotlight: Purdue Fort Wayne
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Manal Ali
Surraya Wagner
Liv Hope
Dr Carl Drummond
Dr. Michelle Drouin
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 5 / 100
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Quality
10
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
0
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Questions about Science Spotlight: Purdue Fort Wayne
Who hosts Science Spotlight: Purdue Fort Wayne?
Dean Friedman host the show. Published by PFW College of Science.
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The show publishes monthly, based on its RSS feed.
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