The Kelp lab focuses on science communication, with research in the field of science communication education as well as in health communication about infectious diseases. With both groups of projects, we are focused on inclusive science communication and promoting effective and equitable collaborations between groups. The Kelp lab is also a part of the Rockies and High Plains Vector-borne Diseases Center, a regional training and evaluation center funded by the CDC.
research project
Investigation of Best Practices for Communication of Scientific Uncertainty
In collaboration with communication researchers and science education researchers, the Kelp lab is analyzing how scientists and STEM students communicate about scientific uncertainty and how diverse audiences respond, especially during emerging infectious diseases.
research project
Development of science communication educational activities for diverse students
The Kelp lab is creating educational activities for students at K-12 and higher education levels to learn how to communicate about complex socioscientific issues, with a focus on inclusive science communication. This includes collaborations with instructors across campus, CSU Extension, WiSCI Network, and Poudre School District, and funding from NSF.
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research project
Community-engaged education to address misinformation around pandemic disease
In collaboration with Ashley Anderson in Journalism & Media Communication and other groups, the Kelp lab is engaging with diverse students and community members to understand and address the spread of scientific misinformation.
research project
Improving Health Communication regarding Vector-Borne Diseases
The Kelp lab is collaborating with diverse vector-borne disease researchers to analyze and improve best practices in health communication regarding vector-borne diseases like West Nile Virus.
Publications
Place-based communication methods and prior knowledge increase public perceptions regarding West Nile virus risk and personal protective behaviors in Colorado
Cagle SM, Schad CM, Wolfe AK, Bristol M, Roundy CM, Kelp NC. BMC Public Health. 2025 Oct 27;25(1):3618. doi: 10.1186/s12889-025-24831-5. PMID: 41146211; PMCID: PMC12560437.
Utilizing of Q Methodology to delineate STEM student perspectives regarding science communication about scientific uncertainty in socioscientific issues.
Howk A, McMillan R, Kelp NC*. (2025). International Journal of Science Education, Part B: Communication and Engagement, 1-18.
Inclusive Science Communication as a tool to address One Health challenges.
Kelp NC*. (2025). BioScience, biaf011.
Development of a Scale to Measure Planned Behavior in Inclusive Science Communication: Validity Evidence in Undergraduate STEM Students.
Worthington D, Graham B, Gilliard H, Kelp NC*. (2024). CBE-Life Sciences Education, 23:ar48. DOI: 10.1187/cbe.24-01-0012
Stop the Spread: Empowering Students to Address Misinformation through Community-Engaged, Interdisciplinary Science Communication Training
Cagle S, Anderson A, Kelp NC. (2024). Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 1-35.
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People
Nicole Kelp-Sullivan, Ph.D.
Lab Principal Investigator [PI]
Assistant Professor
Chair of the Medical Science Content Directors, CU School of Medicine
Members of the Kelp Lab, Spring 2025
news and updates
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February 11, 2026
Research Day 2026 saw record attendance, new awards, and plenty of innovative spirit
Delaney Worthington of the Kelp lab, won second place for her research poster in the Pedagogy research category.
September 8, 2025
Graduate Certificate in One Health prepares professionals to solve global health challenges
Kelp lab’s Delaney Worthington is earning a certificate in One Health.
May 8, 2025
And the winners are … CURC 2025 showcases student brilliance
Kelp lab student researcher, Jessica Gray, wins Excellence in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice for her poster titled, “Service Dogs in Science – How do we make Laboratories more Accessible for disabled individuals with Service Dogs?” at CURC 2025.
