Second Century Stewardship: Science for America’s National Parks aims to: Advance conservation science and provide science that informs stewardship of natural and cultural resources by expanding scientific research programs in parks; Strengthen and broaden public understanding of the value of parks for science and science for parks and society by building on the positive public perception of national parks; Enhance science understanding and appreciation among the public by leveraging park science for education and public outreach.

Luis Martinez, like many scientists, did not set out to be a leader in public engagement with science. For him, this aspect of his career arose largely through a research project that attracted the interest of the Los Angeles Times. This attention from a national newspaper led to other interviews, and eventually he was recruited by one of his professional associations, the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), to be on their communication committee. Through ASM, he helped with communication training workshops for graduate students, realizing along the way that he had more experience to share than he’d realized.

Fears that advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning and robots will gut the labor force are overblown, according to the leader of a science and technology policy think tank.