UPCOMING Speakers

Riskin doesn’t just talk science—he lives it. Renowned for his infectious humour and charismatic presence, Dan Riskin is an evolutionary biologist, award-winning television presenter, and bestselling author who has spent more than a decade making science accessible, engaging, and fun. Known for his work on Discovery Canada’s Daily Planet, Animal Planet’s Monsters Inside Me, and as CTV’s Science and Technology Specialist, he inspires audiences to embrace their curiosity and rediscover the joy of discovery.

Dr. Johnathan Burchill is an Adjunct Associate Professor and Manager of Research Projects in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. His research explores Earth’s upper atmosphere, including interactions between the ionosphere and thermosphere and the movement of gases from planetary atmospheres into space. He also develops scientific instruments for sounding rockets and CubeSats and works to improve how space plasma is measured, helping researchers better understand Earth’s space environment.

Giselle Lin is a science communicator at the University of Calgary with a background as a research scientist and chemist. They bring a thoughtful, engaging perspective to conversations about science, discovery, and academia.

Jay Ingram is one of Canada’s best-known science broadcasters and communicators. He hosted CBC Radio’s Quirks and Quarks and later co-hosted Discovery Channel Canada’s Daily Planet for 16 years. A member of the Order of Canada, Jay is also an award-winning author of 20 books, including The Future of Us. He has written extensively about science for national publications, chaired the Science Communications Program at the Banff Centre, and co-founded Calgary’s Beakerhead festival, which brings together art, science, and engineering.

Manju Bangalore is a reproductive health scientist, astronaut-in-training, and social impact leader working at the intersection of women’s health, science, and culture. She is the founder of Operation Period, a Gen Z-led nonprofit advancing menstrual equity through policy, education, and systemic change. With a background in physics, mathematics, and astronautical engineering, Manju has worked at NASA and in the Obama White House on science policy. She is currently training for a pioneering research spaceflight exploring women’s reproductive health in microgravity.

With nearly 30 years of experience in marketing and advertising, Stéphane Picard combined his professional expertise with a lifelong passion for astronomy to found Cliff Valley Astronomy Corp. What began as private stargazing experiences has grown into a leader in astrotourism consulting, partnerships, and product development. Stéphane established Canada’s first Dark-sky Destinations Network and regularly speaks at major industry events. Through innovative experiences, dark-sky preservation, rural community development, and partnerships with Indigenous communities, Cliff Valley Astronomy helps destinations create meaningful opportunities for visitors and residents alike.