Applied Improvisation for Scientists is a 7-week course designed to help scientists and STEM professionals strengthen their interpersonal skills through the tools of improv!

This course introduces improv from the perspective of a fellow scientist. Each week, you’ll dive into fun, low-pressure exercises that build confidence, adaptability, collaboration, and communication. Together, we’ll reflect on how these skills apply to real-world workplace challenges. These skills are critical for scientists, but traditional education and training leave little opportunity for their development. Ironically, many of the skills attributed to the successful scientist - like planning, meticulousness, and precision - can sometimes stifle innovation, limit awareness, and inhibit communication. But all is not lost! This course uses improv to loosen things up and help you respond with more creativity and connection.

You’ll explore concepts like creativity, spontaneity, adaptability, courage, and storytelling, with optional resources provided for continued learning. No experience needed, and no requirement to be funny - though funny often happens naturally! Just bring an open mind, an eagerness to participate, and a willingness to take risks in a supportive environment.

If you're looking to increase your confidence, react more effectively to unexpected events, engage your colleagues with active listening, and build ideas through sincere collaboration, then this course is for you!

Course Dates

Classes will meet on Wednesdays, on the following dates:

Sep 3, Sep 10, Sep 17, Sep 24, Oct 1, Oct 8, Oct 15