Meg Mindlin
Scientist. ARTIST. Photographer.
Since my career change, I have earned a B.S. in Biology from University of California, Santa Cruz, a M.S. in Biology from Walla Walla University, and a following of over 100,000 people for my science communication outreach.
I had an usual path to science. After dedicating the first 18 years of my life to a career in art, I pivoted and became a molecular biologist.
ARTIST TURNED MOLECULAR BIOLOGIST
RESEARCH
I have 6 years in research experience, working on projects such as A-to-I RNA editing in octopuses, diet and predation in California sea lions using stable isotope analysis, pre-mRNA mutations in genetic disease, nanopore sequencing technology development, anti-inflammatory botanicals, and large-scale sample testing.
My master’s thesis is on how A-to-I RNA editing is affected by ocean acidification in Octopus rubescens. Watch my thesis presentation here.
SCIENCE COMMUNICATION
Originally, I pursued a marine biology degree in pursuit of becoming a formally-educated ocean documentarian. This goal was quickly derailed during a freshman year writing course, where I learned how to write a research paper, became an award winning writer, and learned of RNA editing in octopuses for the first time. From there I changed majors, joined an RNA research lab, and found a passion for communicating complex topics.
Since then I have been quoted in the New York Times, written and illustrated a blog post for Octo Nation, spoken in front of a live studio audience for Science Friday’s Cephalopod Week, participated in Seattle Aquarium’s Lighting Talks, appeared as a guest expert on BBC, ABC Weekends Australia, and on far too many podcast episodes.
COMBINING ART AND SCIENCE
Illustrate A Talk: Work study for Charlotte Magnum Scholarship at SICB 2025.
Illustrations for a blog post I wrote.
Illustration for a "boots-on-the-ground” science communication endeavor from Skype A Scientist.
Illustration for my presentation at SICB 2025.
Logo I made for the Nishiguchi Laboratory of Beneficial Symbiosis at UC Merced.
Science-classroom inspired poster.
Scratch off squid facts calendar designed for Skype A Scientist.
My training in art and design not only makes me a more effective communicator—attracting viewers and keeping them engaged. But it also makes me a better scientist, as my artistic endeavors have allowed me to practice and grow my creativity.
I wrote about this intersection for the Journal of Integrative and Comparative Biology’s blog. Find it here.
