WIS PDX and Partner Events

Research as Storytelling
Apr
21

Research as Storytelling

Everyone keeps saying “tell the story of your research,” but what does this look like in practice? And doesn’t storytelling mean fictionalizing and making things up? Join OHSU writing specialist Zoe Speidel to learn how you can develop the “plot” and “characters” of your research without sacrificing its integrity.

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April Lunch & Learn: Research as Storytelling
Apr
21

April Lunch & Learn: Research as Storytelling

Everyone keeps saying “tell the story of your research,” but what does this look like in practice? And doesn’t storytelling mean fictionalizing and making things up? Join OHSU writing specialist Zoe Speidel for a free lunchtime webinar on April 21 at noon to learn how you can develop the “plot” and “characters” of your research without sacrificing its integrity. 

Save the date and stay tuned - registration info coming soon to our website and social media!

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April Happy Hour
Apr
16

April Happy Hour

Our Happy Hour events continue this next month! Join us for our April Happy Hour at SE Lucky Lab Brew Pub for a night of hanging out with other WIS-PDX members. New to WIS? This is a great chance to network and meet others in the community! We’ll also be selling our T-shirts at all our happy hour events so stop by and pick one up for only $25! Hope to see you there!

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2025 AISES North Regional Conference
Apr
11
to Apr 13

2025 AISES North Regional Conference

  • Portland State University’s Native American Student & Community Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Calling all Native high school juniors & seniors and undergraduate students in STEM! Are you ready to connect with Native professionals and peers who share your passion for science, technology, engineering, and math? Join us for the American Indian Science & Engineering Society (AISES) Regional Conference, April 11-13, 2025, at Portland State University’s Native American Student & Community Center!

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Science on Tap: Storytelling With Data: Great Graphs, Bad Logos, & the Ethics of Data Visualization (Copy)
Mar
26

Science on Tap: Storytelling With Data: Great Graphs, Bad Logos, & the Ethics of Data Visualization (Copy)

So much data. So much misrepresentation. In our era, understanding the nuances of effective visual storytelling is more crucial than ever.

What is the neuroscience of vision?
The psychology of perception?
How do our brains process visual information?

Well-designed graphs can illuminate complex data, making it accessible and engaging for all audiences, while poor design choices, including misleading logos, can distort the truth behind the numbers.

Sip on local brews and learn about the aesthetic elements of data visualization AND the ethical responsibilities that come with presenting information. How can we ensure our visuals tell an honest story? What are the implications of data manipulation in public discourse? How to think critically about the visuals you encounter and create, highlighting the ethical dimensions in the context of neuroscience and psychology.

Science, design, and ethics—perfectly paired with a pint!

Jackie Wirz, PhD, (our own MC!) is a biochemist by training, a nonprofit executive by profession, and a teller of stories. After 15 years of bad graphics as a research scientist, she decided to educate herself on what actually goes into a great visualization. She leveraged these skills as a data management specialist, academic administrator, and as a nonprofit executive. In her spare time she is the MC (mistress of ceremonies) for a variety of events including Science on Tap!

Dr. Steven Bedrick is an Associate Professor at OHSU where his research focuses on the intersection of natural language processing and healthcare. He is also interested in the societal and ethical implications that arise from speech and language technology.

REGISTER HERE:

https://www.scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_march_26_data-viz/

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OMSI Event: Silent Sky
Mar
6
to Mar 9

OMSI Event: Silent Sky

Join us as we celebrate the life and legacy of the pioneering astronomer Henrietta Swan Leavitt with this intimate and magical play performed inside the Kendall Planetarium. The performance includes stunning celestial visuals designed by OMSI Planetarium director, Jim Todd, and music by Jenny Giering performed live by pianist Jesse Preis.

A decade before women gained the right to vote, Henrietta Leavitt and her fellow women “computers” transformed the science of astronomy. In the Harvard Observatory, Leavitt found 2,400 new variable stars and made important discoveries about their fluctuating brightness, enabling fellow scientists to map the Milky Way and beyond. This inspiring drama explores the determination, passion and sacrifice of the women who redefined our understanding of the cosmos.

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WIS PDX Happy Hour
Feb
27

WIS PDX Happy Hour

Join WIS-PDX for our first Happy Hour event of the year on Thurs, Feb 27th from 5:30 to 7:30pm at the SE location of Lucky Lab Brew Pub. This is a great opportunity to meet some of the WIS-PDX family, practice networking skills inspired by the latest mixer, or catch up with other community members that you haven’t seen in a while. No need to register or sign up–just stop by and grab a drink with us! Hope to see you there!

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The Legacy of Black Excellence in Veterinary Medicine
Feb
18

The Legacy of Black Excellence in Veterinary Medicine

This lecture series celebrates Black excellence in veterinary medicine, from the first African American women to earn veterinary degrees to modern entrepreneurs featured on Animal Planet. We’ll also explore cases led by Dr. Beamon, highlighting her contributions to Black excellence in the field. The legacy of Black professionals in veterinary medicine is multidimensional, and together, we celebrate their enduring impact.

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Bio on the Rocks | Portland
Feb
13

Bio on the Rocks | Portland

Join us as life science industry and academic professionals, economic development experts, service partners, investors, students and biotech enthusiasts gather for an evening of networking and a light program.

Bio on the Rocks - part of our regionally rotating "Bio On" series, launched in 2007 - brings together our vibrant bioscience community for an evening of connection, engagement, and education. 

Whether you are a biotech veteran, new to the trade, or simply curious - all are welcome.

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Oregon Bio Women Meetup | Portland
Feb
13

Oregon Bio Women Meetup | Portland

Calling all women in the bioscience industry! We invite you to a relaxed gathering prior to Bio on the Rocks on Feb. 13, from 4 -5  p.m. At this intimate and casual event, foster connections and enjoy the camaraderie among women working in bioscience. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with your bio-colleagues in our community.

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Thigmomorphogenesis, or Why Most Trees Don’t Fall Over
Feb
12

Thigmomorphogenesis, or Why Most Trees Don’t Fall Over

Science on Tap is an event series based in Portland, OR, where you can sit back, enjoy a pint, and laugh while you learn.

In the Pacific Northwest, our trees grow to be some of the tallest and largest organisms on the planet, and that can be understandably intimidating as you watch them bend and sway during winter weather from your home.  Luckily, our trees did not achieve their prominence by accident, and this talk will explain what the trees are doing, how they react to their environment, and what you can do to make sure your trees are safe.

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WISPDX Networking 101 Mixer
Feb
12

WISPDX Networking 101 Mixer

This engaging and interactive event will equip you with practical tips to network like a pro. Learn how to skip the small talk and dive into deeper conversations with strategies like asking, "What roles and positions have led you to where you are today?" instead of the usual, "What is your current role?" Gain insights on building connections with lateral peers, external leaders, and those above you, while highlighting your unique skills to foster meaningful professional relationships.

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Ciphered Secrets: From Navajo Code Talkers to Digital Safeguards
Feb
12

Ciphered Secrets: From Navajo Code Talkers to Digital Safeguards

Imagine a world where information is power, and the secrets to protecting it have been passed down through centuries, from the ancient Caesar ciphers to the cutting-edge blockchain technology of today. Join David McMorries as he unravels this captivating story, revealing the surprising link between the legendary Navajo Code Talkers and the encryption systems that safeguard our digital lives. In this age of interconnectedness, where cyber threats loom large, discover how we're building a secure future, one innovation at a time. Come, be a part of this narrative, and connect with fellow guardians of the digital age.

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Discover the Economic Impact of Bioscience in Oregon!
Feb
11

Discover the Economic Impact of Bioscience in Oregon!

Join the leadership of Oregon Bioscience Association for an exclusive look into the remarkable growth and impact of the bioscience industry in our state. Learn how this dynamic sector is driving innovation, creating high-paying jobs, and fueling economic prosperity across Oregon. Come share your stories to bring this incredible report to life.

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Science on Tap: Storytelling With Data: Great Graphs, Bad Logos, & the Ethics of Data Visualization
Jan
8

Science on Tap: Storytelling With Data: Great Graphs, Bad Logos, & the Ethics of Data Visualization

So much data. So much misrepresentation. In our era, understanding the nuances of effective visual storytelling is more crucial than ever.

What is the neuroscience of vision?
The psychology of perception?
How do our brains process visual information?

Well-designed graphs can illuminate complex data, making it accessible and engaging for all audiences, while poor design choices, including misleading logos, can distort the truth behind the numbers.

Sip on local brews and learn about the aesthetic elements of data visualization AND the ethical responsibilities that come with presenting information. How can we ensure our visuals tell an honest story? What are the implications of data manipulation in public discourse? How to think critically about the visuals you encounter and create, highlighting the ethical dimensions in the context of neuroscience and psychology.

Science, design, and ethics—perfectly paired with a pint!

Jackie Wirz, PhD, (our own MC!) is a biochemist by training, a nonprofit executive by profession, and a teller of stories. After 15 years of bad graphics as a research scientist, she decided to educate herself on what actually goes into a great visualization. She leveraged these skills as a data management specialist, academic administrator, and as a nonprofit executive. In her spare time she is the MC (mistress of ceremonies) for a variety of events including Science on Tap!

Dr. Steven Bedrick is an Associate Professor at OHSU where his research focuses on the intersection of natural language processing and healthcare. He is also interested in the societal and ethical implications that arise from speech and language technology.

REGISTER HERE: https://www.scienceontaporwa.org/events/kiggins_jan_8_dataviz/

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Dec
3

Negotiation Bootcamp Workshop

Negotiation Bootcamp Workshop

Feel like asking for more of what YOU want?  Learn more about yourself in the negotiation space and practice exercising your negotiation muscles in our upcoming Negotiation Bootcamp.  

We have 3 available seats for the Q4 Negotiation Bootcamp Workshop series.   

When:  Tuesday evenings October 22, November 5, 19, December 3
Where:  Online session using Google Meets
Time:  7-9pm Pacific time


What is the Negotiation Bootcamp?  
This 4-session course focused on the book Women Don’t Ask (by Babcock and Laschever).  This series could also be called “How to Identify What You Want from Life and then Go Get It”.  Recognizing what women can ask for is half of the battle.  The course is not just about negotiation but about finding your professional voice and building confidence to ask for what you want and need.  To that end, we need to understand our strengths and use these for both professional and personal development.  The session is called a Bootcamp because one of the main focuses is working with the participants to ask for what they want under different conditions/scenarios so they can build their “asking muscles”.  We explore how “asking” resonates internally, how to manage these situations, and the impact of their asks. 

Have questions or want to sign up for the class?  Reach out and contact Pamela Fischer at pamelaf67@msn.com 

We are also looking for future Facilitators for the Negotiation Bootcamp sessions. If you are interested, please contact Pam as well.

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Nov
19

Negotiation Bootcamp Workshop

Feel like asking for more of what YOU want?  Learn more about yourself in the negotiation space and practice exercising your negotiation muscles in our upcoming Negotiation Bootcamp.  

We have 3 available seats for the Q4 Negotiation Bootcamp Workshop series.   

When:  Tuesday evenings October 22, November 5, 19, December 3
Where:  Online session using Google Meets
Time:  7-9pm Pacific time


What is the Negotiation Bootcamp?  
This 4-session course focused on the book Women Don’t Ask (by Babcock and Laschever).  This series could also be called “How to Identify What You Want from Life and then Go Get It”.  Recognizing what women can ask for is half of the battle.  The course is not just about negotiation but about finding your professional voice and building confidence to ask for what you want and need.  To that end, we need to understand our strengths and use these for both professional and personal development.  The session is called a Bootcamp because one of the main focuses is working with the participants to ask for what they want under different conditions/scenarios so they can build their “asking muscles”.  We explore how “asking” resonates internally, how to manage these situations, and the impact of their asks. 

Have questions or want to sign up for the class?  Reach out and contact Pamela Fischer at pamelaf67@msn.com 

We are also looking for future Facilitators for the Negotiation Bootcamp sessions. If you are interested, please contact Pam as well.

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Nov
18

Green Chemistry in the Pacific Northwest: Fostering Innovation and Collaboration

Please join Oregon Environmental Council and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality for a virtual forum for Pacific Northwest-based green chemistry stakeholders: Green Chemistry in the Pacific Northwest: Fostering Innovation and Collaboration. The Pacific Northwest is home to impressive leadership in the green chemistry space. We are eager to facilitate a space for innovators in Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and Alaska to build relationships, discuss current concerns and opportunities within the green chemistry community, and identify ways to expand the capacity of the field.

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Nov
5

Negotiation Bootcamp Workshop

Feel like asking for more of what YOU want?  Learn more about yourself in the negotiation space and practice exercising your negotiation muscles in our upcoming Negotiation Bootcamp.  

We have 3 available seats for the Q4 Negotiation Bootcamp Workshop series.   

When:  Tuesday evenings October 22, November 5, 19, December 3
Where:  Online session using Google Meets
Time:  7-9pm Pacific time


What is the Negotiation Bootcamp?  
This 4-session course focused on the book Women Don’t Ask (by Babcock and Laschever).  This series could also be called “How to Identify What You Want from Life and then Go Get It”.  Recognizing what women can ask for is half of the battle.  The course is not just about negotiation but about finding your professional voice and building confidence to ask for what you want and need.  To that end, we need to understand our strengths and use these for both professional and personal development.  The session is called a Bootcamp because one of the main focuses is working with the participants to ask for what they want under different conditions/scenarios so they can build their “asking muscles”.  We explore how “asking” resonates internally, how to manage these situations, and the impact of their asks. 

Have questions or want to sign up for the class?  Reach out and contact Pamela Fischer at pamelaf67@msn.com 

We are also looking for future Facilitators for the Negotiation Bootcamp sessions. If you are interested, please contact Pam as well.

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WIS PDX October Happy Hour
Oct
23

WIS PDX October Happy Hour

Join WIS for our spookiest happy hour of the year! Head on over to SE Lucky Lab (915 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR) on Wednesday, October 23rd from 5:30pm - 7:30pm for a scary good time hanging out with the WIS community. Wrap your claws around a spine-chilling beer or NA drink and chat with other WIS members about anything from ghouls to goblins. No sign up or registration required, just show up, maybe grab a slice of ‘Za(ombie), and have a frighteningly fun evening with friends!

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Oct
22

Negotiation Bootcamp Workshop

Feel like asking for more of what YOU want?  Learn more about yourself in the negotiation space and practice exercising your negotiation muscles in our upcoming Negotiation Bootcamp.  

We have 3 available seats for the Q4 Negotiation Bootcamp Workshop series.   

When:  Tuesday evenings October 22, November 5, 19, December 3
Where:  Online session using Google Meets
Time:  7-9pm Pacific time


What is the Negotiation Bootcamp?  
This 4-session course focused on the book Women Don’t Ask (by Babcock and Laschever).  This series could also be called “How to Identify What You Want from Life and then Go Get It”.  Recognizing what women can ask for is half of the battle.  The course is not just about negotiation but about finding your professional voice and building confidence to ask for what you want and need.  To that end, we need to understand our strengths and use these for both professional and personal development.  The session is called a Bootcamp because one of the main focuses is working with the participants to ask for what they want under different conditions/scenarios so they can build their “asking muscles”.  We explore how “asking” resonates internally, how to manage these situations, and the impact of their asks. 

Have questions or want to sign up for the class?  Reach out and contact Pamela Fischer at pamelaf67@msn.com 

We are also looking for future Facilitators for the Negotiation Bootcamp sessions. If you are interested, please contact Pam as well.

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WIS Professional Development Scholarship Application Deadline
Oct
18

WIS Professional Development Scholarship Application Deadline

Need funds for a research conference or skill-building workshop? WIS is offering Professional Development Scholarships of up to $500.

Who can apply
Applicants must (1) identify as a historically marginalized gender (e.g., cisgender women, transgender women, transgender men, non-binary individuals), (2) be currently enrolled in a STEM graduate program in Oregon or SW Washington, and (3) not have received a WIS Professional Development Scholarship during the Spring 2024 cycle.

What the scholarship can be used for
Expenses related to a conference, workshop, course, or other professional development opportunity.

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