Her research interests include public perception of issues in science and science communication in film, media and museums. She has an A.B. in Biological Sciences from Mount Holyoke College; and an M.S. in Zoology and a Ph.D. in Media Studies, both from Rutgers University. Her doctoral research focused on the role of visual format, rhetoric and culture in science communication. Prior to her tenure at Rutgers, she worked at Enzon Inc., serving in a variety of positions from immunologist to Associate Director of Scientific Information; was Partner in New Paradigm Consulting Inc. specializing in science writing, project management, teaching, and curriculum development; and was Thematic Director of Health at Liberty Science Center.