Science on Tap

Join us in the Bierhall for a Science on Tap Presentation!

6:30pm – Gather
7:00pm – Presentation Begins

Science On Tap is a monthly series of informal talks led by scientists that explore current research topics and the importance of science in our daily life. Each talk takes place in a relaxed pub atmosphere where communication flows freely between scientists and the public. Co-presented by Skidmore’s Environmental Studies and Sciences Program and Sustainable Saratoga, these monthly opportunities for discussion reflect the unique intellectual culture of the greater Capital Region and promote scientific literacy.

Admission is free and all ages are welcome. The talk will start promptly at 7:00pm.

Speaker: Professor Holly Ahern

Talk title:  Tiny Bug, Big Problem – Ticks and the Diseases They Carry

Talk description: Ticks are blood sucking arachnids that can transmit harmful microbes while they bite. In New York, Lyme disease is the most common bacterial infection transmitted by black-legged (deer) ticks, but other serious diseases like babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis can also occur. This talk will look at the potential consequences of tick/human interactions, with a focus on Lyme disease – the most common tick-borne illness and one that is associated with long term chronic illness if not correctly diagnosed and treated.

Brief bio: Holly Ahern is an award-winning professor at SUNY Adirondack where she teaches courses in biology and microbiology. As a result of her family’s personal experience with Lyme disease, she co-founded and is Vice-President of Lyme Action Network, a national 501-c-3 with a mission of patient education and advocacy. Holly is also the Scientific Advisor for the Focus on Lyme Foundation based in Phoenix, Arizona, which funds strategic research projects aimed at improving the quality of diagnostic testing for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. As a scientist and advocate, she was appointed to serve on state and federal advisory groups, including the HHS Tick Borne Disease Working Group and the NYS Tick Borne Disease Working Group. She remains actively involved in NYS and federal legislative initiatives to improve access to care for “long-hauler” Lyme disease patients and people with other chronic illnesses. In 2023, Holly co-founded and serves as Chief Scientific Officer of ACES Diagnostics, a company created to make clinically accurate diagnostic tests and therapeutics broadly available to Lyme disease patients.

Please Note: Beer will be flowing, but the Bierhall kitchen will not be open. Come early to get a bite to eat in the Taproom across the street!