Katherine McComas is a risk communication scholar whose research and teaching focus on understanding motivations and barriers surrounding communication about scientific, technological, and environmental risk issues. Such communication takes place in many venues, from the front page of the New York Times to the website of the CDC, to the local public meeting, to the doctor’s office, to the visitors’ center in our national parks.
Professor McComas’ current research examines ways to develop risk messages that encourage greater awareness of the linkages between human, animal, and environmental health and well-being (“One Health”). Current research also focuses on public acceptability of risk in the context of new and renewable energy technologies.
Professor McComas’ longstanding commitment to working closely with community partners in both her research and teaching programs paved a pathway to her current role as Cornell University’s Vice Provost for Engagement and Land-Grant Affairs. In this position, she helps steward the university’s public engagement mission.
