Registration Open for the 2025 Nebraska Women in STEM Conference Featuring Dr. Raychelle Burks

Bio Nebraska and Nebraska Cures announced today that registration is open for 2025 Nebraska Women in STEM Conference.

The conference will take place on April 3- 4, 2025, at Embassy Suites by Hilton Omaha La Vista Hotel & Conference Center in La Vista, Neb. and will feature Dr. Raychelle Burks, associate professor of analytical chemistry at American University in Washington, D.C. and science communicator.

Dr. Burks pursued her graduate education in Nebraska, receiving her Masters in Forensic Science from Nebraska Wesleyan University, her PhD in Chemistry from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and conducted her post doctoral research at Doane University.  

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Raychelle Burks as the keynote speaker for the 2025 Nebraska Women in STEM Conference,” said Amanda McGill Johnson, Executive Director of Nebraska Cures. “Her groundbreaking work and passion for empowering others in STEM exemplify the spirit of this event, and we know her insights will inspire attendees at every stage of their careers.”

After working in a crime lab, Dr. Raychelle Burks returned to academia, teaching, and forensic science research. Her research team is focused on the development of colorimetric and luminescent sensor arrays for the detection of analytes of forensic interest with accompanying image analysis. Beyond the lab, Dr. Burks is a popular science communicator and is a frequent contributor or consultant for TV, film, podcasts, and large, in-person STEM events. She writes a science-meets-true crime column called “Trace Analysis” for Chemistry World, the magazine of the Royal Society of Chemistry. She is a member of a number of local, national, and international committees focused on equity, diversity, inclusion, and social justice in STEM.

“This year, we’ve expanded the Nebraska Women in STEM Conference to include an additional half day, giving attendees even more opportunities to connect, learn, and grow,” said Bio Nebraska Assistant Director Sasha Forsen. “We want participants to leave feeling empowered, supported, and equipped with the tools and networks they need to confidently advance their careers in STEM.”

In addition to the keynote address by Dr. Burks, the conference schedule will feature opportunities for women to develop their personal and professional identity, as well as, build networks of support to help them achieve their goals, and will take place in an inspiring, fun, and encouraging environment. Conference registration is $200 per person. Registration and sponsorship opportunities are available HERE.