Hidden Stories: From Ocean Microbes to Media Mysteries

Video essays are one of the most popular forms of film analysis conducted on the internet. On YouTube, they can reach an audience of millions of like-minded film-interested people. However, they are also characterized by a central tension, which is what my research focuses on: while some of these video essays aim to discuss films with a clear thesis in mind, thereby mediating them to an audience through audiovisual means, they are also constrained by YouTube’s own specifications and dynamics. In my presentation, I would like to highlight the approaches that producers of video
essays develop as a result, and what we can learn from this form about our use of social media.

Why aren’t children just half copies of their parents? Why do siblings, born of the same mother and father, look different? What determines whether you inherit your mom’s smile or your dad’s freckles? To unravel these mysteries, let’s dive into a genetic detective story, one that begins with a simple love story between two mice, but quickly spirals into a high-stakes genetic murder mystery of their potential grandchildren. Who are the real culprits, lurking in the dark corners of our genome? Who are the usual suspects? And who are their partners in crime? Grab your magnifying glass. Let’s nab the criminals and solve the case!

Did you know that certain contaminants are prevalent in various environments, particularly in surface waters? Their distribution can harm coastal ecosystems and may increase the threat posed by antibiotic resistance genes in these areas. This aspect of science fascinates me. My name is Adenike Adenaya, and I am a postdoctoral researcher at GEOMAR, where I investigate the interactions between microbes and contaminants, such as pharmaceuticals, in coastal environments. I also have a passion for writing and participating in workshops. These allow me to bridge my scientific understanding with public education. Through storytelling, I hope to inspire others to appreciate the delicate balance of our ecosystems and the crucial role each of us plays in preserving them.