The art of scientific storytelling

Agenda for
25-27 June
2025

speaker-picture
Lee Cherry
Certified Occupational Hygienist (COH), Aurora Environmental, Australia
Scientific storytelling is the art of presenting complex, technical concepts through narrative structures that engage, educate, and inspire diverse audiences from the shop floor through to management. By joining data, findings, and theories into compelling stories, scientific storytelling helps bridge the gap between research and understanding, making science accessible and relatable. The craft involves more than just presenting facts; it requires a deep understanding of narrative techniques such as character development, conflict, and resolution, applied to the scientific context. Storytelling in science can humanize abstract concepts, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with the subject matter while preserving scientific rigor. This art form is especially vital in contexts such as education, public health communication, environmental advocacy, and science policy, where clarity and engagement are crucial for fostering informed decision-making. Ultimately, the art of scientific storytelling has the power to transform the way we communicate science, making it not only understandable but also memorable and impactful.

Bio

With over 17 years of professional experience in occupational health, safety, and hygiene, Lee has delivered comprehensive and practical solutions across a diverse range of projects and sites throughout Australia ranging from lead and zinc smelting, iron ore mining, petrochemical plants and offshore installations and vessels, water industry, and most recently as team lead in an environmental and occupational hygiene consultancy. A skilled communicator and trusted advisor, Lee’s expertise lies in aligning occupational safety and hygiene strategies with client and stakeholder requirements, ensuring regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, and best-practice implementation in complex operational environments through scientific storytelling.

Lee was recognised as the 2024 Draeger AIOH Young Hygienist of the Year, a prestigious industry award that highlights Lee’s excellence, innovation, and leadership in occupational hygiene.