Scientific literacy is essential for successful decision-making in many aspects of life. However, an alarmingly large number of Americans lacks even a basic understanding of the goals and methods of science. As a result, the social relevance of scientific research had been under-appreciated — even distorted — among large sections of the population. Many Americans, for example, hold a dangerously cynical view of biomedical research, with tragic consequences for public health.

The MCW BrainExpo is an effort to narrow the gap between the scientific community and the general public. BrainExpo 2023 will be a 2-day event (March 10 and 11), featuring 10 different exhibits hosted by over 50 volunteers, and 3 lectures presented by MCW neuroscience faculty. Visitors will be able to see (and hold) real human and animal brains, examine brain cells through microscopes, experience visual, auditory, and tactile illusions that reveal the underlying structure of our perceptual experience, and learn about the brain’s electrical activity, brain imaging, brain evolution, and common neurological disorders.

The BrainExpo is unique in that it brings together researchers and community members in an environment that encourages free and prolonged exchanges. Visitors are free to wander around and explore the exhibits following their curiosity, as in a science museum. Unlike a science museum, however, the exhibits are staffed by scientists who are actively participating in the generation of that knowledge, thus providing a unique opportunity for visitors to experience science from a personal, human perspective. For the researchers who volunteer, the experience of translating technical knowledge into an account that resonates with individuals from various educational backgrounds encourages them to think of familiar scientific ideas from new perspectives, potentially generating new questions for scientific exploration.