We all use fashion to communicate. From sports fans indicating their allegiance, to children wearing special hats to indicate their birthday—even “Pussy Hats” knit to arm activists—Fashion is how we transmit information.

Scientists and policy-makers alike are struggling to engage the public with scientific topics ranging from vaccination to global climate change. One challenge is that there are few tools that take creative approaches to engage diverse audiences in scientific discussions using evidence-backed practices.

These two topics are related.

The Microbe Hat Project blends fashion, science, and technology to create microbe-themed hats— tools designed to facilitate communication efforts on specific subjects. The hats are Derby-style hats that feature microbial elements: 3D printed microbe models, microbial cellulose, microbe-generated plastics, microbial pigments, and sometimes even living microbes. The hat becomes a talking point to guide constructive discussions about microbial science topics using the evidence-based participatory science education model. The project uses data-driven approaches to design hats that are tied to key topics.

The project has multiple goals:

First, to take advantage of the audience that fashion already has—reaching communities that science communication efforts often overlook and using them to amplify the discussion about the benefits of microbial applications. This is achieved through the growing Microbe Hat Exhibit, various exhibits and talks on this project, and a growing list of collaborators.

Second, to create an open-source protocol that will allow the program, and tools, to be adopted by communities around the world, teaching students about microbiology and science communication using a project-based module.

Third, to engage audiences in microbial sciences through participatory conversations between the wearer of the hat and informal audiences that comment on the hat when it is being worn. This is an evidence-backed practice shown to effectively communicate science. It presents a new model for science communication using robust, data-driven methods.

Taken together, the project enables students, educators, and scientists to create opportunities for constructive dialogue and effective science communication using creative, boundary-pushing tools.

Check back soon for newly launched lesson plans (open source), project updates, and where you can see this exhibit in person.