Rate My Professor Alba Suarez Garcia

Alba Suarez Garcia earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Science Communication from the University of Otago in 2022. Her doctoral thesis, 'Humanising science through poetic storytelling,' supervised by Fabien Medvecky and Nancy Longnecker, examines the role of poetry in conveying the human dimensions of scientific research, rendering intricate concepts approachable for general audiences. Prior to her PhD, she conducted a three-month study at Barcelona Zoo on the behavioral cognition of seven captive orangutans, analyzing how environmental enrichments facilitate positive interactions and innate foraging behaviors. This hands-on experience redirected her career toward science communication, underscoring the compelling narratives driving scientific inquiry.

As a doctoral candidate at the University of Otago's Centre for Science Communication within the Division of Sciences, Suarez Garcia developed the podcast series 'Around the World in 80 Discoveries.' This project spotlights scientists from varied cultural backgrounds at Otago, delving into their personal challenges, triumphs, and motivations, thereby portraying science as a profoundly human pursuit. Praised for its immersive format and wide accessibility—including to families and global listeners—the series exemplifies her dedication to public engagement. Hailing from Asturias, Spain, she draws parallels between Dunedin's landscapes and her native region's natural splendor. More recently, Suarez Garcia has engaged in educational innovation, co-authoring the 2024 conference presentation 'Embedding ChatGPT as a Tutor and Career Adviser in an Undergraduate Paper' at the New Zealand AI in Higher Education Symposium with Rachel Spronken-Smith, Russell Butson, and Jodie Evans. She also contributed to a 2023 publication on integrating human and AI elements in digital courses for career readiness. Presently, she holds the position of Schools’ Liaison Officer at the University of Otago, specializing in international marketing and recruitment in the Auckland region, where she visits schools to guide students on tertiary pathways.