I transform science education by bridging cognitive science, educational practice, and cutting-edge technology.
My research explores how embodied experiences shape scientific understanding. Drawing on an interdisciplinary background in mathematics, physics, and science communication, along with my Ph.D. in physics education research, I investigate science teaching and learning from multiple perspectives. My work on the educational reconstruction of general relativity has been recognised with the International Astronomical Union Ph.D. Prize in Education, Outreach, and Heritage.
So, what exactly does a science education researcher do?
I share interests with cognitive scientists, linguists, historians of science, and philosophers – just to name a few.
Yet, my questions diverge.
Rather than just asking how cognition works, I explore how this knowledge should shape the way we teach and design our instructional approaches.
Rather than analysing language acquisition as a linguist might, I examine how language skills impact scientific understanding.
While historians of science chart how scientific ideas evolve, I translate those insights into meaningful learning experiences.
And while philosophers might ponder the nature of science, I investigate how to make these deep insights accessible to learners.
My focus, while intersecting with these fields, is distinctly practical.
I’m committed to making science education more embodied, accessible, and meaningful for all learners.
My research intersects science education, embodied cognition, and technology perspectives, focusing on how embodied experiences shape scientific understanding. I teach graduate courses in science education research & practice while actively mentoring early-career researchers.
In addition to my research and teaching responsibilities, I hold leadership positions within the European Science Education Research Association (ESERA), and I serve on the editorial boards of Science Education and Research in Science Education, two major science education research journals. I'm particularly proud of having co-founded IMPRESS (International Modern Physics & Research in Education Seminar Series), a joint initiative with CERN to foster collaboration between physics educators worldwide.
Interested in collaboration, speaking engagements, or learning more about my work in embodied science education? Let's connect! 🙂