Susan Bassham Discusses Rapid Evolution on Jefferson Public Radio
Dr. Susan Bassham was featured on Jefferson Public Radio discussing our groundbreaking research on rapid evolution in threespine stickleback!
In the segment “When Evolution Speeds Up,” Susan eloquently explained how our Alaska stickleback research demonstrates that evolution can occur much faster than traditionally thought, with significant implications for understanding species’ responses to environmental change.
Radio Interview Highlights
Susan discussed: - Evolution in decades, not millennia - Alaska earthquake natural experiment - Stickleback as evolutionary model - Climate change implications - Real-time adaptation
Public Engagement
The interview achieved: - Regional audience reach - Science accessibility - Evolution education - Research translation - Community connection
Key Messages
Susan communicated: - Evolution is observable - Natural selection acts quickly - Adaptation is measurable - Science addresses current issues - Research has real-world relevance
Alaska Research Story
The interview covered: - 1964 earthquake impacts - New habitat creation - Fish colonization - Rapid changes observed - Scientific opportunity
Evolutionary Insights
Discussion included: - Predictable changes - Genetic mechanisms - Multiple populations - Parallel evolution - Selection strength
Climate Change Context
Susan explained how research: - Informs adaptation potential - Predicts species responses - Guides conservation - Offers hope and concern - Requires urgent action
Science Communication
The interview demonstrated: - Clear explanation skills - Complex concept translation - Engaging storytelling - Research relevance - Public connection
Regional Interest
Jefferson Public Radio: - Pacific Northwest focus - Environmental awareness - Science programming - Educational mission - Community service
Media Training Value
This appearance shows: - Effective communication - Media readiness - Message clarity - Public engagement - Outreach importance
Complementary Coverage
Adds to recent media: - Scientific American video - Press releases - Conference presentations - Publications - Social media
Audience Impact
The interview: - Educated listeners - Inspired interest - Corrected misconceptions - Promoted science - Built understanding
Lab Visibility
Radio coverage provides: - Research awareness - University promotion - Student recruitment - Funding visibility - Community engagement
Susan’s clear communication brings our evolution research to the broader community!