Randy Olson, Ph.D.
Professor of Marine Biology and Filmmaker
Author of "Don't Be Such a Scientist:
Talking Substance in an Age of Style"
Author and Hollywood producer Dr. Randy Olson recently addressed Noblis scientists and engineers at the annual Technology Leadership Awards Luncheon. The Harvard-educated Ph.D. and former tenured professor of marine biology left academia 15 years ago when he recognized the science community’s need to better communicate with the public.
With films like Flock of Dodos: The Evolution-Intelligent Design Circus (Tribeca ‘06, Showtime) and Sizzle: A Global Warming Comedy (Outfest ‘08), he has bridged the cultural divide that has too often left science on the outside looking in. Olson entertained the Noblis audience with lessons from his own hilarious—and at times humiliating—evolution from science professor to Hollywood filmmaker. From his first book—Don’t Be Such a Scientist—he shared the secrets of talking substance in an age of style. The key, he argued, is to stay true to the facts while tapping into something more primordial, more irrational, and ultimately more human.
The 2009 Technology Leadership Awards recognized over 160 Noblis scientists and engineers for their professional contributions to various fields of science and technology. These Noblis staff authored over 270 papers and conference presentations during 2009. At the event, Noblis President and Chief Executive Officer Amr ElSawy and Chief Technology Officer Dr. H. Gilbert Miller awarded the 2009 Charles A. Zraket Award for Excellence in Science and Technology to Dr. Jane Tang and the Dr. Lydia W. Thomas Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Early Career Professional to Ms. Mile Corrigan.