9th Annual SCEC Breakfast Club

Conversations between students, early-career researchers, and senior SCEC scientists in a casual, welcoming setting

Date: August 31, 2026 (07:00–07:55am PDT)
Location: Hilton Palm Springs, Tapestry Room
Conveners: Jillian Maloney (SDSU), Betsy Madden (SJSU), Caroline Seyler (USC)

Overview

Hosted by the SCEC Community Involvement Committee, this event fosters dialogue between students, early-career researchers, and senior SCEC scientists in a relaxed, informal setting. Participants will explore research, career paths, and the realities of life in science—while building professional relationships that last. At a time when networking is more important than ever, the Breakfast Club offers fresh perspectives, practical advice, and valuable connections to support your journey in the earthquake science community. Don’t miss this energizing start to your day at the SCEC Annual Meeting.

This year’s Breakfast Club will focus on strategies for thriving in times of change and uncertainty in research. Participants will have the opportunity to talk with experienced SCEC scientists about:

  • Communicating Science with Impact
  • Building positive collaborations
  • Successfully navigating and networking at academic conferences
  • Developing research life skills, like managing time and handling set-backs

Space is limited: Sign up here to reserve your spot for breakfast and networking!

Students and early career researchers are encouraged to join us for the 9th Annual Breakfast Club.

Mentors

  • Shawna Ackerman, Chief Risk and Actuarial Officer, California Earthquake Authority
  • Kim Blisniuk, Professor, San Jose State University
  • Matt Burgess, Engineer, EarthScope
  • Bryan Castillo, Project Engineer and Science Communicator
  • Tim Dawson, Seismic Hazards Program Manager, California Geological Survey
  • Ahmed Elbanna, Director, Statewide California Earthquake Center
  • Ned Field, Research Geophysist, United States Geological Survey
  • Albert Kottke, Geotechnical Earthquake Engineer, Pacific Gas & Electric
  • Philip Labra, Earthquake Preparedness Program Manager, Cal OES
  • José Lara, Seismic Hazards Branch Chief, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services
  • Kathleen Rodrigues, Director, Luminescence Research Lab, Desert Research Institute

SCEC Activities Code of Conduct

The Statewide California Earthquake Center (SCEC) fosters a diverse and inclusive community where everyone feels safe, productive, and welcome. We expect all participants in SCEC-supported events to uphold this commitment by adhering to the SCEC Activities Code of Conduct.

SCEC Meetings and Workshops

The SCEC Annual Meeting brings together 400-500 participants worldwide to share breakthroughs, assess progress, and chart a collaborative path for earthquake science. All of the Center activities are presented, analyzed, and woven into a set of priorities for SCEC to pursue in the future.

Coming Soon!

Questions? Contact us.

Applications are currently closed

Questions? Contact us.