The Vandal Theory

The Vandal Theory podcast asks, What gets Univ

Author: University of Idaho

The Vandal Theory podcast asks, What gets University of Idaho researchers brains buzzing ... besides coffee? These award-winning stories showcase researchers exploring and solving real-world problems. With interviews on all things Vandal, discover the world of U of I research with hosts Leigh Cooper and Danae Lenz.
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Language: en

Genres: Science

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Episode 11.8: Decoding science through storytelling
Monday, 20 April, 2026

Have you ever struggled to decipher a scientific paper? Meet Erin James (go.uidaho.edu/4vr4F13), a professor of English in U of I’s College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences (go.uidaho.edu/4ccBDL0). She's also the director of the university’s sustainability certificate and co-director of the Confluence Lab (go.uidaho.edu/4mvIvX5). In this episode, she explores how storytelling shapes the way we understand the environment and why interdisciplinary collaboration — across science, humanities and beyond — is key to tackling complex sustainability challenges. Visit our website uidaho.edu/vandaltheory. Email us at vandaltheory@uidaho.edu. Learn about Idaho’s premier research university, University of Idaho, at uidaho.edu.  Music  “Young Republicans” by Steve Combs (go.uidaho.edu/3U3MNHs) via freemusicarchive.org, not modified (go.uidaho.edu/3Q6LeY5).  “Seaside At Dusk” by Michael Dowdle (go.uidaho.edu/4muynhx) via Amphibious Zoo.   Chapters (0:00) Have you ever struggled to decipher a scientific paper? (02:40) Getting to know Erin James (03:24) The science of stories (08:46) The Confluence Lab and interdisciplinary research (14:30) Narrative science (20:04) Sustainability certificate (27:24) Final thoughts