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Mariette DiChristina is a distinguished figure in the field of science journalism and an accomplished leader in the realm of communication. Currently serving as the dean of the College of Communication at Boston University, of which she is an alum, DiChristina's impressive career spans various influential roles, including her tenure as the editor-in-chief and executive vice president of Scientific American. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a passion for promoting scientific literacy and communicating complex ideas to the public. With a background in journalism, DiChristina embarked on her career in science writing more than two decades ago. DiChristina's deep interest in science and her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts with clarity and precision contributed to her rapid rise within the ranks of Scientific American.

Popular Science
DiChristina spent nearly 14 years at Popular Science in positions culminating as executive editor. Her work in writing and overseeing articles about space topics helped garner that magazine the Space Foundation's 2001 Douglas S. Morrow Public Outreach Award.

In September 2010, Nature Publishing Group, Scientific American's parent organization, became a member of Change the Equation, a CEO-led initiative to cultivate widespread literacy in STEM in the U.S., as part of President Obama's "Educate to Innovate" campaign. Led by DiChristina, Scientific American launched several programs in 2011 in support of the initiative's goals.

Scientific American
In 2001, she joined Scientific American as the executive editor, marking the beginning of her long-standing association with the renowned publication. From December 2009 to September 2019, DiChristina served as the editor-in-chief of Scientific American, a position that solidified her reputation as an exceptional science journalist. Under her leadership, the magazine continued to uphold its tradition of delivering accurate and accessible scientific information to a broad audience. DiChristina played a pivotal role in expanding Scientific American's digital presence, overseeing the growth of its online content and engagement with readers. Her dedication to promoting scientific literacy earned her widespread recognition within the industry.

Contribution to Science Journalism
Throughout her career, Mariette DiChristina has been committed to bridging the gap between the scientific community and the general public. Through her work at Scientific American, she fostered a culture of excellence in science journalism and encouraged the exploration of diverse scientific topics. DiChristina's editorship emphasized the importance of evidence-based reporting, debunking misconceptions, and promoting critical thinking. Her efforts were instrumental in making complex scientific ideas more accessible and engaging for readers of all backgrounds.

Leadership as the Dean of the College of Communication
Since assuming the role of dean of the College of Communication at Boston University in 2019, Mariette DiChristina has continued to demonstrate her dedication to promoting effective communication in various fields. In her position, she oversees the strategic direction of the college, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of innovation and relevance in the ever-evolving communication landscape. DiChristina's extensive experience as a science journalist has undoubtedly influenced her approach to communication education, fostering a curriculum that values accuracy, integrity, and engagement.

As dean, DiChristina has prioritized interdisciplinary collaborations, encouraging students and faculty to explore the intersections of communication, media, and technology. By emphasizing the importance of critical thinking, ethical communication, and effective storytelling, she equips students with the skills necessary to thrive in the rapidly changing media landscape. Under her guidance, the College of Communication at Boston University continues to produce future leaders in journalism, public relations, advertising, and other communication-related fields.

Other Leadership positions
DiChristina has taken on various leadership roles and made notable contributions in the fields of technology, science, and academia. She currently serves as the chair of the Steering Group for the 'Top 10 Emerging Technologies' for the World Economic Forum. This role entails overseeing and guiding the selection process for identifying and highlighting the most promising emerging technologies that have the potential to significantly impact various sectors and industries.

Furthermore, DiChristina has been recognized for her achievements and expertise in the scientific community. In 2011 she was elected as a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Being elected as a Fellow of the AAAS is a prestigious honor that acknowledges individuals for their outstanding contributions to advancing science. As a Fellow, DiChristina is part of a distinguished group of scientists and researchers who have made significant impacts in their respective fields. Additionally, DiChristina has actively participated in initiatives related to climate communication and science policy. She served as a committee member of the Climate Communications Initiative for the U.S. National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine. This committee focuses on improving the communication of climate science to the public, policymakers, and other stakeholders, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and its effective dissemination. DiChristina's expertise and advocacy have also led her to testify before the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. In her testimony, she advocated for federal funding of basic scientific research, recognizing its critical role in advancing knowledge, driving innovation, and addressing societal challenges.

In spring 2005, she was Science Writer in Residence at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her chapter on science editing appears in the second edition of A Field Guide for Science Writers.

She is former chair of Science Writers in New York (2001 to 2004) and a member of the American Society of Magazine Editors and the Society of Environmental Journalists. DiChristina was honored by New York's Italian Heritage and Culture Committee in its October 2009 celebration of Galileo's contributions to science.

In January 2010, she was honored by the National Organization of Italian American Women as one of its "Three Wise Women" of 2009.

She was honored as a “Corporate Visionary” in Folio’s 2014 Top Women in Digital Media. 

DiCristina serves as a volunteer member of the Board of Trustees for Society for Science.

She was president (in 2009 and 2010) of the 2,500-member National Association of Science Writers.

She has been an adjunct professor in the graduate Science, Health and Environmental Reporting program at New York University.

DiChristina is a frequent lecturer and has appeared at the 92nd Street Y in New York, Yale University and New York University among many others.