Local Funnyman Discovers Formula for More Effective Communication

Ben Rush, PhD, MPH, believes scientists need to laugh. A Wisconsin transplant and informatics data scientist, the Wisconsin Institute for Discovery alumnus had a second life as a comedian outside work, founding Amalgam Improv in 2024. It took Rush years to realize he could merge his love of comedy with science–and that he could use the combination to improv science communication. 

Rush’s approachable, low-pressure improv activities allow participants to practice speaking spontaneously, respond to mistakes, and adapt their message. One of his workshops, Better Science Communication through Improv, in collaboration with the Illuminating Discovery Hub, provides hands-on improv experience designed for graduate students, postdocs, staff, and faculty in STEM fields.  

You worked at WID for two years as a postdoc. What originally drew you to work at WID?
I completed my PhD in Nutritional Sciences at UW-Madison, and I knew being at WID meant I could learn more about machine learning, develop as a mentor, and express my unique take on science communication. I had been told humor could lessen the impact of science. But WID made me feel my comedic personality in science was valued. 

Was there a mentor, class, project, or turning point that helped shape your direction?
Claudia Solis-Lemus. I admired the way she structured her lab culture, strategically thought about research projects, and openly admitted that she was still learning. Claudia believed each student had potential to rise to a challenge. I take the belief of potential to every aspect of mentorship, business, and into crafting Amalgam Improv. 

What did your path look like after graduation—and were there any unexpected turns along the way?
Young scientists are conditioned to tie their worth to grants and awards. But I became recognized for my passions for science communication, humor, and leadership.  My confidence grew, and I started my dissertation defense with a fake presentation about bees taking over the universe. As a postdoc, I’ve leaned into being a comedic and improv scientist. Now I am the expert teaching renowned faculty how to laugh, connect, and play. At one corporate workshop for a Fortune 50 company, the group’s leader said, “Everything I’ve been trying to teach in last year is what we learned in this 2-hour workshop, but done better.” I felt I found my superpower.

What advice would you offer current students or recent graduates who may be figuring things out?
Experiment! You never know what you will like or dislike until you try it. 

What brings you joy or motivation outside of your professional work?
Leading Amalgam Improv for the past 1.5 years. I built a community, met heroes, developed deep friendships, and personally grew immensely.