Every year, Girls & Science provides an exciting opportunity for young girls to engage with women in STEM, try out hands-on activities and imagine a future in science, technology, engineering and math. Hosted by the Museum in partnership with CBS Colorado and Girls Inc. of Metro Denver, this event creates a dynamic space where curiosity meets inspiration.
Reserve your spot: Girls & Science event
This year’s event kicks off with an evening full of exploration, learning and fun. From 4-8 p.m., participants can meet mentors, take part in interactive STEM experiences and discover the many possibilities a career in science can offer. The Museum will remain open until 9 p.m., ensuring plenty of time for families to enjoy the exhibitions and activities.
One of the inspiring mentors at Girls & Science is Dr. Bridget Chalifour, a genomics scientist at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Bridget’s work delves into the fascinating world of DNA, helping to uncover new species, study microbiomes and answer complex biological questions.
Read on to learn more about Bridget and her journey in science.
Meet Girls & Science Mentor Bridget Chalifour
Dr. Chalifour poses in front of a diorama in the Wildlife Halls at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. (Photo/ Rick Wicker)
What do you do at the Museum?
I’m a Genomics Scientist, which means I study DNA. DNA is in everything that’s alive, so I get to work on a wide range of projects. For example, I help identify new species of dung beetles with our zoology collections, and I even study the tiny organisms that live on and inside people and animals, commonly known as the "microbiome." If there's a question at the Museum that DNA can help answer, I’m on it!
Tell me a bit about how you came to this role. When did you find your calling? Were there any significant challenges you overcame on the way?
My love for science started in high school with an Environmental Science class. This led me to study Environmental Science at the University of Florida, where I explored different areas of science like soil science and wildlife ecology. After volunteering in a research lab and working in salt marshes, I realized my passion for ecology. I pursued a PhD at the University of Colorado Boulder, where I first worked in a natural history museum. It wasn’t easy — there were long hours in the lab and challenges like finishing my degree during the pandemic — but it all paid off. After grad school, I expanded my research to include humans, which set me up perfectly for my current role at the Museum.
Read more: Welcoming Bridget to the Museum Team
Dr. Chalifour, in the Museum's Genomics Lab, holds product from a polymerase chain reaction, a process that essentially "photocopies" DNA. (Photo/ Rick Wicker)
Why are you excited for Girls & Science?
Girls & Science is an amazing opportunity for girls to try out different science careers and connect with female mentors. It’s hands-on, interactive and really fun! I love that it gives young girls a chance to explore science in such an engaging way. I only wish I could’ve experienced something like this when I was younger!
Join Us for Girls & Science!
Girls & Science is an amazing opportunity for girls to try out different science careers and connect with female mentors. (Photo/ Denver Museum of Nature & Science)
Girls & Science is all about showing girls that if they can see it, they can dream it — and BE it! By connecting with women mentors in STEM, participants can ask questions, gain inspiration and explore exciting career paths in science.
This free event is made possible by our generous supporters and sponsors. Registration is encouraged — sign up today and don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!