Shelby Bradford

About

I defended my PhD in Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis at West Virginia University in spring of 2023. My dissertation research focused on the neonatal immune response to vaccination. Specifically, I investigated the role interluekin-27, one of many molecular messengers (or cytokines) used to direct immune cells, has on dendritic cells, the sentinels of our immune system, in response to bacteria from the BCG vaccine. My career goals are to leave the bench and enter the science communication sphere. In preparation for this, I participated in a variety of communication and outreach trainings, including the Art of Science Communication course through ASBMB, attendance at the University of Nebraska Science Communication Conference (SciComm2020), writing for Massive Science Consortium, and competing in WVU's 3 Minute Thesis competition. I also began volunteering and then working at Carnegie Science Center and volunteering for a state-based outreach program, Science Public Outreach Team. At the science center, I assist with event programming and help lead activities and demos as needed. For SPOT, I learned the content and associated activities in presentations prepared with the help of topic experts to bring into classrooms and other events. This project connected WV students with science concepts they may not otherwise get to learn about and on science research and opportunities in their home state. Currently, I am a fellow for the AAAS Mass Media Fellowship, where I am working as a general climate and energy reporter at StateImpact Pennsylvania in connection with the WITF news station in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Follow me on Instagram/Twitter (link in bio) or WITF on their main page or Instagram to learn about the intersection of climate, energy, and economy in Pennsylvania and to catch my feeds this summer!