It’s all about telling a good story.

In the past few years, I have been honored to share stories and insights from my professional journey in a variety of venues and formats.

My speaking engagements often include:

  • Showing photos and videos from remote corners of the world

  • Inspiring students and early-career professionals to pursue untraditional, meaningful careers

  • Equipping other science communicators with new ideas, tools, and resources

  • Bridging the gap between extreme exploration and everyday life

From formal presentations to hands-on workshops, I am passionate about sharing stories of bold endeavors, unique jobs, and fascinating science.

Upcoming Events:

Event: Science in Focus: Leveraging Film to Humanize Science

Date: Monday, Oct. 26th

Location: Duke University

Description: I am honored to be a guest speaker/instructor for project-based course at Duke this fall.

This project team will produce a series of short documentary films that spotlight the everyday lives, motivations and challenges of Duke scientists. Rather than focusing on major breakthroughs, the films will reveal the human stories behind scientific inquiry. The goal is to foster deeper connections between scientists and the public and to counter stereotypes that science is elitist or impersonal.

On Oct. 26th, I will share my experience, insights, and advice for producing compelling science stories in the field. My presentation will focus on working with NASA JPL engineers and Caltech scientists in Antarctica, as well as documenting deep sea biologists during the Alvin 6500 expedition in the Caribbean.

This project is made possible by Bass Connections, is a university-wide academic program that supports collaborative, interdisciplinary research at Duke. Learn more here. reveal the human stories behind scientific inquiry. The goal is to foster deeper connections between scientists and the public and to counter stereotypes that science is elitist or impersonal.

Previous Events:

Testimonials:

“Marley presented at our inaugural SkunkSpeak, a program designed to give members of Science Communicators of North Carolina a platform to share either their career journeys or practical skills from the field. In her talk, Marley shared her path as an ocean expedition photographer and writer, offering an honest and compelling look at both the challenges and rewards of freelance work. Her story inspired everyone in the room, highlighting the value of perseverance, resilience, and pursuing meaningful work — even when it’s hard.”
— Alyssa LaFaro, Science Communicators of North Carolina (SCONC) President
“Science communication is often an exciting but daunting field that students don’t always know how to get into. Marley’s talk was enlightening for students in our visual communications program, highlighting the importance of sharing not only science but the stories of the people behind discoveries. It was really inspirational to us – we all keep talking about it!”
— Elise Mahon, Vice President of UNC Chapter of North Carolina Press Photographers Association
“I first saw Marley present at the 2022 Science Talk conference and the experience left me very inspired. I had a ton of questions. I immediately invited her to talk with our Fellows at SAi to share her story and advice.
True to form, the session she hosted with our Fellows was another inspirational hit covering many important topics for early stage founders who are building informal science initiatives. I have no doubt we will have her back to talk to future fellows and residents at SAi.”
— Fanuel Muindi, Founder & Chief Resident at the Stem Advocacy Institute
“Marley’s talk was one of my favorites at the conference. Obviously, she has a dream job and career, but the choices she has made and the reality of doing some serious self-evaluation really resonated with me. It was validating and affirming to hear from someone successful but super relatable! Thank you for sharing your experience and advice!”
— Amy Weldon, Science Communications Content Strategist at Johns Hopkins

Want Marley to speak to your students or organization?

Please email mlparkermedia@gmail.com with the subject line “speaking event”