Kitta MacPherson

I translate complex scientific and medical concepts into clear, compelling prose.

• Movie: Contact
• Book: Exhalation by Ted Chiang. In these short stories, this science fiction writer showcases his remarkable ability to weave real science and theory into his tales.
• Musician/Band: I love the haunting, memorable music of Chris Martin's "Coldplay"

I was part of a team of journalists who represented the newspaper, The Star-Ledger, in the Greater Newark (adult) Spelling Bee. We won the event for four straight years. One winning word: s-y-n-e-c-d-o-c-h-e!

I am proud of R-Comm's earned reputation for excellence and commitment.

My team slogan would be: "All Science, All The Time"

My team mascot would be: A dancing ring composed of a carbon atom, a silicon sliver, an irrational number, a quark, a phytoplankton, a protein, a polymer particle, and a smidgeon of dark energy. This twirling strand of eight would symbolize the joy of research and the interplay of scientific disciplines.

What I love most about my team: We love science and medicine and deeply enjoy communicating Rutgers breakthroughs.

What I love most about R-Comm: I am amazed daily at the incredible depth and breadth of the creative talent exhibited by the R-Comm team.

What I love most about working at Rutgers: Our faculty's depth of intellect, our staff's commitment to the growth and development of the university, and our students' irrepressible vitality and engagement.

If I were being profiled by Rutgers Today, my quote would be: "Follow your bliss." This expression by the late Joseph Campbell, the expert in comparative mythology and religion, has long guided me.