Biography
Explosive Science with Dr. Kate Biberdorf!
Kate “Dr. B” Biberdorf is a Ph.D chemist who loves to ignite things, including opportunities for young women. Born and raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Kate earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and German from the University of Michigan in 2008. She then relocated to Austin, Texas to attend The University of Texas at Austin, where she graduated with her Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry in 2014. In her current role as a chemistry Lecturer and the Director of Demonstrations and Outreach for The University of Texas at Austin, Kate is known for developing explosive demonstrations that excite undergraduate chemistry students. Outside of the classroom, she is often found at local Austin schools, promoting science education with her outreach program ‘Fun with Chemistry’.
After all, who doesn’t want to wear designer heels while discussing nuclear energy? She is highly motivated to inspire students of all ages to pursue a degree in STEM – all while diminishing the stigma around women in science. To this end, she has launched a Women in Chemistry program within UT Chemistry, and offers three summer camp sessions for K-12 youth. Dr. B’s work has spread like wildfire and she’s caught the attention of local news stations and national advocates. Her demos were recently featured by NBC Nightly News, CNN’s Great Big Story, Discovery Channel’s Daily Planet, and Amy Poehler’s Smart Girls.
