Dara Laczniak, PhD
2025 AGU SciAct Affiliate
Affiliate bio
I emphasize science communication (sci-com) in my classrooms and even teach a dedicated sci-com course. I look forward to learning best practices and strategies from communications experts that I can incorporate into my curricula and personal sci-com efforts.
Dara Laczniak, PhD
Doctoral Lecturer
Queens College
Dara Laczniak is planetary geologist who currently works as a Doctoral Lecturer at Queens College in New York City. Here, she teaches courses in Physical Geology, Planetary Science, Mineralogy, and Science Communication and serves as the undergraduate geology advisor. Dr. Laczniak received her Ph.D. in Planetary Science from Purdue University in Summer 2023. Her research aims to understand how natural weathering processes driven by high-speed dust impacts and solar wind ions in outer space change the chemistry, microstructure, and optical properties of airless planetary surfaces, like asteroids, the Moon, and Mercury. Rooted in her own theater background, Dr. Laczniak is passionate about science communication and outreach. In her free time, she can be found cuddling her cat, singing karaoke, or watching reality TV.