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A Chat with Biologist Edward O. Wilson on SciAm’s 168th Anniversary

I am very pleased to announce that the SciAm community will be graced by the presence of one of the most well-known naturalists, Edward O. Wilson, an eminent biologist, researcher, and theorist who is the world’s leading authority on ants.

This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American


I am very pleased to announce that the SciAm community will be graced by the presence of one of the most well-known naturalists, Edward O. Wilson, an eminent biologist, researcher, and theorist who is the world's leading authority on ants. He is the recipient of two Pulitzer Prizes for his thoughtful and insightful writings. If you haven't picked up any of his books, it is certainly not too late to start! Join us at noon EDT today (August 27) below.

The hangout discussion will focus on Dr. Wilson's latest book, "Letters to a Young Scientist," where he offers advice to those choosing a career in science about finding a place that resonates with your passions and abilities. We will also converse with him about strategies for communicating science to the general public, which he does so adeptly.


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Enjoy a preview of his book, as told by him in this TED talk.

This event is a collaboration between the Read Science! Google Hangout on Air Program and Scientific American. My co-host, Jeff Shaumeyer and I will be your hosts.

The hangout coincides (minus one day) with the 168th anniversary of Scientific American's first issue. Join us Tuesday, August 27th, at noon EDT for 30 minutes. You can watch the livestream here.

All of this would not be possible without some help behind the scenes and I'd like to acknowledge the assistance of Charlie Schick (@molecularist on twitter), whom I met in person at an iGEM international synthetic biology competition at MIT. He is taking time out of his day to drive to Dr. Wilson's house and assist in setting up for our Google Hangout on Air! Frankly, as thrilled as I am to be speaking with Dr. Wilson via new technology, I think Charlie is the most fortunate of us all, to be sitting in his presence, if only for a few hours.

Since we all can't be Charlie, please join us for the next best thing!

Joanne Manaster is a university level cell and molecular biology lecturer with an insatiable passion for science outreach to all ages. Enjoy her quirky videos at www.joannelovesscience.com, on twitter @sciencegoddess and on her Facebook page at JoanneLovesScience

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