Month: January 2026

Exploring Icy Extremes with Melisa Diaz

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Melisa Diaz, Assistant Professor in Earth Sciences, specializes in geochemistry and the study of the cryosphere. She discusses her broad research interests, including her focus on the Antarctic and Arctic, urban geochemistry, and the environmental impact of redlining. Diaz elaborates on her role as a CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholar, her work on Greenland’s periodic lake drainage, astrobiology, and research on ocean worlds. The conversation also touches upon her outreach initiatives like the “Girls on Rock” program, which aims to inspire young women to pursue science, and her efforts to intersect science, storytelling, and art to make research more inclusive and accessible.

VoE – Melisa DiazDownload

Joyce Chen: A Humanistic View of Economics

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Dr. Joyce Chen, Professor of Economics in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies at The Ohio State University, discusses her research and teaching at the intersection of economics and societal contexts. She highlights how she integrates a feminist and humanistic approach to economics, developing courses such as “Data Feminism”, which teaches students to apply new ways of thinking to data analysis. The conversation also touches on Dr. Chen’s research on climate-induced migration in Bangladesh, as well as her focus on aiding communities and non-profits through research insights.

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George Rush: Beyond Rural Landscapes

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George Rush, Professor of Art at The Ohio State University, delves into his recent work, including international exhibitions Curtain Walls in Mexico City and Dresden Cabinet in Germany. Rush discusses the integration of site characteristics into his works, his use of photography and collage, and his exploration of themes like urban landscapes and architecture. Rush also reflects on the evolution of his practice and creative process, as well as his future projects that include exploring overlooked parts of Columbus, Ohio.

VoE – George RushDownload