Sedona Chinn, assistant professor in the Department of Life Sciences Communication, has been selected to receive an Elton D. and Carrie R. Aberle Faculty Fellow Award.

Chinn researches how individuals make sense of competing claims about science, health and the environment, as well as how social influence via new media affect perceptions of credibility and expertise. She is also exploring the ways in which informal uses of social media – to relax, entertain and seek inspiration – can shape science and political attitudes. In addition, she investigates ‘Do Your Own Research’ narratives and how they are related to expertise, information seeking and science beliefs.

The Aberle Faculty Fellow Award, established by former CALS dean Abe Aberle and his wife Carrie, is designed to recognize and reward promising young faculty within CALS, providing support and encouragement during the critical, pre-tenure period.