top of page

science journalist

I cover stories that lie at the intersections of science, society, and culture. I'm particularly interested in uncovering overlooked science stories from marginalized communities. My work has been featured in National Public Radio, Chemical and Engineering News, and more.

I'm also currently an editorial fellow at Breastcancer.org.

In 2023, I served as a AAAS Mass Media Fellow at National Public Radio, where I wrote about public health.

In graduate school, I wrote about science for my department's website and served as a science communication fellow at the local Natural History Museum

CAS10267_HiRes_edited.jpg
IMG_8664.JPG

synthetic organic chemist

I received my PhD in chemistry from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor in May 2024. I studied natural product synthesis under the supervision of Dr. Corey Stephenson

My time as a chemist largely focused on developing new ways to make biologically interesting compounds originally found in nature. My thesis focused on using radical chemistry to make resveratrol natural products.

LGBTQ+ activist and storyteller

Since graduate school, I've been committed to advocating for and building community with queer and trans scientists.

 

In 2020, I started the podcast, My Fave Queer Chemist, which was widely recognized in the chemistry community for it's contributions towards accelerating queer and trans acceptance in the field. 

I've presented on LGBTQ+ inclusive science communication at national conferences, including the American Chemical Society National Meetings.

In 2025, I started a meetup for LGBTQ+ science writers in the NYC area, called QueerSciWri NYC. 

DSC_0258_edited.jpg
IMG_8823.JPG

and more! 

I enjoy hiking through new and old places, from the Southern hills of the Tennessee River Valley to the swamps of Louisiana and hidden park gems of Brooklyn. 

 

At home, I enjoy baking, crafting, and watching women's basketball. One day I hope to master the banjo that's been hanging on my wall for years.  

To connect, you can follow me on Bluesky or LinkedIn or email me at becjroldan [at] gmail.com  

bottom of page