As Chief Scientist for the New York Hall of Science, Stephen Uzzo develops and leads large-scale initiatives to research and integrate cutting edge science into teaching and learning. He currently leads initiatives to build communities of practice in complexity, data-driven science, and engineering, and improve science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) literacy of the public. His background includes over twenty years experience in the research of teaching and learning in STEM, and prior to that, ten years in video and computer graphics systems engineering. Dr. Uzzo’s research interests include complex networks, smart cities, and the impact of big data on communities of need. He holds a terminal degree in network theory and environmental studies and serves on a number of institutional and advisory boards related to his interests. His work includes developing, studying and teaching graduate programs in STEM learning. Having never lived very far from the ocean in New York, Massachusetts and California, Dr. Uzzo has also been a lifelong advocate for marine conservation.