Nerd Nite #60 – Leapin’ Languages, Botanical Mind Tricks, and Corals with Frickin’ Laser Beams

Why would anybody want to learn a “fake” language? Elvish, Klingon, Dothraki… Come explore the fascinating world of conlanging- the art of language construction- and see what all the fun is about!

Dr. Taylor is a linguist, conlanger, sailor and dedicated life-long nerd. He has served as LocSec of San Diego Mensa and Gifted Youth Coordinator of both San Diego and Mensa Hawaiʻi. He has passed qualifying exams for 10 languages and has a Doctorate in International Business.

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Coral reefs on ice: marine biology and lasers, together at last

Nik Zuchowicz

In the face of a new great extinction, biologists are racing to preserve the world’s genetic diversity.  Keeping animals alive in the freezer is a tricky business, but we have the technology to do it.

Nik is a technician with the Center for Species Survival, part of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo.  His interests include tinkering, really nice coffee, and afternoon naps.

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“What the F(ruit)?!

Amy Hruska

Let’s spend a few moments enjoying a good drink (or two!) and discussing plant movement, trickery, and how plant-animal relationships are important for understanding our forest!

Amy is a plant ecologist working toward her PhD at the UH Manoa in the Botany Department. You can learn about her work and hobbies on social media @ecologist_amy.