What do wizards, princesses, and ecologists have in common? At Cosplay for Science, they all come together to protect ecosystems—while sparking scientific curiosity in kids and families.
Organized by Dr. Phil Anderson—in collaboration with the group Cosplay for Science—this imaginative outreach event now takes place twice a year and has quickly become a local favorite. Originally launched at Riggs Beer Company in Urbana during homecoming weekend, the event returned this past April at the Anita Purves Nature Center, reaching even more families with its unique blend of storytelling and hands-on science.
The event invites children and their families into a fantastical storyline: invasive species are arriving from a mythical realm called the Feywild, and it’s up to them—alongside the Transplanar Security Administration (TSA)—to stop the spread. Guided by costumed volunteers dressed as fantasy scientists and adventurers, participants move through interactive stations where they learn real-world biology through fun and play.
At one station, kids scan luggage for “invasive species” with the help of a plush sniffer dog. At another, they match color-coded DNA puzzle pieces to identify species hidden in the environment, learning how scientists use environmental DNA to detect the presence of organisms. As families complete each activity, they collect stamps in a training booklet and eventually earn a colorful dice prize—adding a game-like incentive to an already engaging experience.
What makes Cosplay for Science stand out is how it brings science to life in a playful and accessible way. It simplifies complex ecological topics like invasive species and DNA technology by framing them within an imaginative, story-driven context. As a result, participants not only have fun, but also walk away with a deeper understanding of the natural world and how we can protect it.
Now held every spring and fall, the event has become a meaningful part of SIB’s outreach mission, offering students and faculty a chance to connect with the broader community. It’s also an opportunity for alumni to get involved—whether by volunteering, donating materials, or simply bringing their families to experience the magic for themselves.