Megan Ennes ’06, ’11M receives NARST Early Career Research Award

Megan Ennes ’06, ’11M has received the prestigious Early Career Research Award from the National Association for Research in Science Teaching (NARST). The global organization presents the award annually to an early-career scholar who shows exceptional promise in advancing research on science teaching and learning.

Ennes earned a bachelor’s degree in marine biology with secondary teaching licensure and a master’s in environmental studies from UNCW. She later received a Ph.D. in STEM education from North Carolina State University and is now associate curator of museum education at the Florida Museum of Natural History.

“This is a major award in science education,” said Dennis Kubasko, associate professor and coordinator of Watson College’s MAT in secondary education. “Megan was an outstanding student teacher several years ago and has gone on to do remarkable work. We’re incredibly proud of her.”

Ennes said the recognition is meaningful both personally and professionally.

Having my work in informal science education recognized by a community of scholars I deeply respect is very validating,” Ennes said. “I see it as both a reflection on the work I have done so far and an encouragement to keep contributing to the field of science education in new ways.”

At the Florida Museum of Natural History, Ennes focuses on research that directly benefits museum educators and visitors.

“As a former aquarium educator, It is important to me to be able to give back to the informal education community through my work,” she said. “Here, I can engage in my research in a real world setting and see the impacts of my work play out in real time.”

Ennis said her experiences at UNCW helped to shape her career.

“Working with Dr. Kubasko and the other faculty in WCE’s secondary education program really set me up for my career,” she said. “Their support helped me align my student teaching with my interest in informal science. As an intern at Ashley High School, I took my students on a field trip to the aquarium and completed my honors thesis on the importance of pre/post field trip engagement. The experience helped me land my first full time job in an aquarium. It also served as a great foundation when I went back to school for my PhD in science education at NCSU.”

She encourages students who love science and engaging with people to consider careers in science education.

“Teaching science, either in formal settings or out, is a wonderful opportunity to get learners excited about our planet,” she said. “I originally came to UNCW to study marine biology but then I had the opportunity to share what I was learning with folks at the aquarium. That’s when I realized that I wanted to be the intermediary between the researchers and the public. Being able to break down the science in ways that helped people understand and value it, was such a thrill. And, there are so many ways to engage in science education these days from schools, to museums and afterschool programs. I would encourage anyone with an interest to pursue it.”

The Florida Museum of Natural History at the University of Florida announced the award on February 17: Megan Ennes receives Early Career Research Award.