Ursula did a wonderful job researching and writing the 18 science stories contained in the waka huia of our Ageing Well National Science Challenge Book, summating five years of diverse work by hundreds of researchers.
Ursula’s aroha for the project, and technical and relationship skills, resulted in her casting a unified and vivid representation of the Challenge research that moved and enlightened all — including those most deeply familiar with the Challenge. Ursula worked both collegially and with self-direction, meaning we could relax completely, knowing that something special would be delivered in a very calm and controlled way.
Andrew Lonie
Manager of the Ageing Well National Science Challenge, University of Otago
I have worked with Ursula as a science communicator and colleague for many years. Her ability to translate complex scientific research into easily digestible public information is enhanced by her integrity, clarity and approachability. A very positive and thoughtful person to work with.
Julian Thomson
Science Communicator at Out There Learning Ltd
Having you working on stories for our Annual Report has made the process so easy this year, so thank you Ursula.
It makes preparation of the report enjoyable when we know that we will have high-quality, engaging stories delivered perfectly on schedule.
Ruth Hartshorn
Operations Manager at Te Hiranga Rū QuakeCoRE
With her years of experience as a scientist, and her outstanding ability to translate complex science into clear and accessible language, Ursula is one of those rare people who has the ability to sit at the interface of science, policy and practice. She is organised, thorough, professional and always delivers on time.
Dr Caroline Orchiston
Director of the Centre for
Sustainability, University of Otago.
Ursula’s deep understanding and passion for science shines through in her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts. Her immense knowledge, creative ability, and prodigious writing skills come together in a unique way, making her the best science communicator I have had the privilege of working with.
Dr Laura Wallace
FRSNZ, Helmholtz
Distinguished Professor at Kiel University and GEOMAR, Germany.
Working with Ursula to introduce and communicate science to a broader audience has been a very positive and enjoyable experience. She covers it all from knowing the science to understanding how to present complex topics in a manner that can be understood and beneficial for many.
Dr Matt Gerstenberger
Principal Scientist at GNS Science.
I have worked with Ursula on some small science writing projects over the past several years and have read a bunch of her independent work. Ursula is great to work with – respectful of a range of views, inclusive and fun. Her writing is powerful, persuasive, and always tells a meaningful story that resonates with a broad audience. I look forward to the next opportunity to work together.
Dr Kelvin Berryman
FRSNZ, Director of Berryman Research & Consulting Ltd.
Your piece is a model of its genre. You hit all the key points, manage to be engaging and informative within a very tight word limit, and you make it look effortless. No easy thing.
Professor Paul Millar
Faculty of Arts, Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha University of Canterbury
There are not many changes required and overall the sense of the research was very well preserved. Thank you. We normally have to rewrite large chunks, but you have understood what we are doing very well.
Charles Waldegrave
Family Centre Social Policy Research Unit, Lower Hutt
Ursula writes stories that clarify complex issues and boost understanding.
Anyone needing to reach a wider audience to tell their story should engage her.
Dr Hugh Cowan
FNZSEE, Risk
Consultant
Congratulations, Ursula, on your outstanding marks in the Grammar for Writers course! Your final score reflects a fine knowledge of English grammar, and your writing style is elegant and accurate. It has been such a pleasure to tutor you. Well done!
Rosemary Hepozden
Writer and Editor, Tutor at the New Zealand Writers’ College
Ursula is the complete package. Deep, expert knowledge. Clear, accessible writing. And a rare personality and empathy that gives life and meaning to complex ideas.
Toby Manhire
Editor-at-large at The Spinoff
Ursula made it so easy to communicate our research because she knew what to ask, understood its purpose, and was able to explain it to others clearly.
Professor Gregory MacRae
Structural Engineer at The University of Canterbury