Announcements

July 31, 2025: Pandemic Science in a Nutshell Games

July 31 at 5:00 PM | Boeing Auditorium - Virginia Tech Academic Building One, 3625 Potomac Ave., Alexandria, VA 22305 | Located one block from the Potomac Yard-VT Metro Station on the Blue and Yellow lines

Ever wonder how scientists see a pandemic coming—before the rest of us do? What if the key to stopping the next pandemic isn’t just science—but how researchers connect with others to communicate and share that science?

On Thursday, July 31, at 5:00 p.m., at the Boeing Auditorium in Virginia Tech’s Academic Building One in Alexandria, VA, researchers working on pandemic preparedness, prediction, and prevention will take the stage to connect with your community in a series of 90-second presentations—telling the story of their work, exploring how ideas take shape, why they matter, and how they connect to the world beyond the lab—all “in a nutshell”! 

Hosted by the National Science Foundation’s COMPASS Center and Virginia Tech’s Center for Communicating Science, this fast-paced, family-friendly event invites the local community to hear scientists share their research in accessible, creative ways—bridging disciplines, sparking curiosity, and building their own muscles of communication along the way.

All are welcome to join—to experience this beautiful new building in Alexandria’s skyscape and, most importantly, to witness the power of connection and storytelling in pandemic prediction and prevention—vital tools for building public trust, improving ideas, and making research meaningful to everyone.

A reception will follow at 5:30 p.m., providing refreshments and time to meet the speakers, continue the conversation, and connect with others who are curious about the intersection of pandemic science and society.

This free event is open to the public and ideal for adults and school-aged children alike. We hope to see you there!

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Erin Smith, erinmsmith@vt.edu, during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

For more news about the Center for Communicating Science, see our newsletter page, our VTX (News and Stories from Virginia Tech) page, and the "Other News and Media" section of our News page.