tedxboulder mountain sketch slim
tedxboulder mountain sketch slim

Dr. Graham Lau

2024: Chaos & Order

Dr. Graham Lau is an astrobiologist, science communicator, and storyteller. Holding extensive academic knowledge in biology, chemistry, astrophysics, and geology, he specializes in scientific and conceptual issues in understanding what life is and searching for life beyond Earth. As the host of the NASA-funded "Ask an Astrobiologist" livestream show, he illuminates the intriguing field of astrobiology for a broad global audience and regularly guides students pursuing careers in space exploration.

In his current role, Dr. Lau serves as the Director of Communications and Marketing for Blue Marble Space, a US-based international non-profit that promotes cooperative exploration of space, examines life as a planetary process, and enables a sustainable future on Earth. Additionally, Graham actively contributes to scientific progress as a Senior Research Investigator with the Blue Marble Space Institute of Science and serves as the Director of the institute's globally recognized Young Scientist Program internship. Dr. Lau also leads student trips for Smithsonian Student Travel and National Geographic Student Expeditions, as well as overseeing logistics for the University Rover Challenge, an undergraduate robotics competition centered on Mars rovers.

Dr. Lau's passion for sharing knowledge extends beyond the field of astrobiology. He has inspired students worldwide through public lectures, podcast interviews, and his compelling perspectives on our cosmic significance, the Overview Effect, and the future of civilization. Beyond his scientific pursuits, Dr. Lau imparts wisdom as a meditation instructor and cultivates confident speakers as a public speaking coach. His diverse expertise underlines his commitment to education, personal growth, and our shared exploration of our place within the cosmos.