Art of Science: Finding Art From Cells to Seas

Scientists who study cells and the sea join this year's panel of jurors for the Art of Science contest.

The contest, which deadlines Oct. 10, invites Florida Atlantic faculty, staff, students and postdoctoral fellows, to submit pictures and videos of their research. Winners of the contest will be part of a live art exhibit at the Ritter Art Gallery in March.

Get more information or submit here.

Tracy Mincer, Ph.D.

Tracy Mincer, Ph.D., is an associate professor of biology and biogeochemistry and chair of math and natural sciences at the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College. In his laboratory, he continues to investigate the fate of plastic pollution and the hidden microbial worlds that shape ocean ecosystems, research that connects pressing global challenges with fundamental scientific discovery.

His research blends chemistry, biology and the ocean’s hidden worlds, helping illuminate how tiny microbes interact with the environment.

“As a scientist, I have always found it a strength to be rooted in the art world and I am fascinated by the interactions between art and science,” Mincer said. “In many ways the artist and scientist are pursuing the same goals when it comes down to a fundamental level—which is to interpret and understand the world around them.”

Jana Boerner, Ph.D.

Jana Boerner, Ph.D., assistant research professor and managing director, Advanced Cell Imaging Core, Florida Atlantic Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute, is a veteran juror for the Art of Science contest.

With more than 15 years of experience using microscopy to explore nervous system development, Boerner has honed a sensitivity to visual detail and biological narrative. She also directs an annual microscopy workshop for graduate students, nurturing the next generation of scientists in both technique and storytelling.

"Today's digital world gives us a great opportunity to reach people through all kinds of media. In this way we can easily share our research interests and discoveries," Boerner said. "Images are a very powerful way of catching a reader's interest and makes the reader want to learn more about your research topic. The Art of Science contest is a wonderful way to present some of your hard work that led to those beautiful images."