Science Cheerleader

Neuroscientist, Internet radio host, blogger, student mentor, and captain of a competitive bocce ball team made of scientists, John Ohab, Ph.D. has taken a most non-traditional path through the world of science. Consistent among these experiences is a passion for communicating science to the general public and an ability to mobilize citizens to participate in the scientific process. John sees his work with Science Cheerleader as an opportunity to continue this adventure and experience first-hand the many conduits through which citizen scientists can impact society.

John received his B.S. in Biopsychology from UC Santa Barbara in 2002 and his Ph.D. in Neuroscience from UCLA in 2007. His doctoral work in Dr. S. Thomas Carmichael’s lab focused on the role of adult neural stem cells in brain repair after stroke, led to several publications in the Journal of Neuroscience, and earned the 13th Annual Samuel Eiduson Student Lecture Award. John’s involvement in community endeavors, such as National Brain Awareness Week and the Johnnie Cochran Jr. Junior High Science Fair, were critical in developing his interests in citizen science.

Looking to use his doctoral training to influence federal science policy, John pursued and was awarded two separate Science and Technology Policy Fellowships through the American Association for the Advancement of Science. John spent one year as a science policy analyst at the National Institute of Mental Health and currently works at the US Department of Defense.
As an emerging media strategist in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, John is working to expand awareness, knowledge and use of emerging media tools, such as blogs and wikis, in public affairs and the defense workplace. He also coordinates public engagement in the blogosphere and various social networking sites and hosts a weekly science and technology radio show, “Armed with Science: Research and Applications for the Modern Military”.

John was born and raised in Tempe, Arizona, experienced a moderately successful run in high school varsity tennis, and would sell his soul for one Arizona Cardinals Super Bowl victory. Now in the Washington D.C. area, he spends his spare time watching movies, hanging out with friends, promoting urban forestry with Casey Trees, and miming historical statues and monuments at every opportunity.

Note: The views expressed by John on ScienceCheerleader.com are John’s opinions and are independent of any organizations with which he is associated.

Check out Dr. Ohab’s reports.