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Science on Tap | Common Roots Brewing Co. | February 25, 2026

Wednesday, February 25, 2026
7:00 PM 8:00 PM

Common Roots Brewing Co. 58 Saratoga Avenue South Glens Falls, NY, 12803 United States (map)

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Turning All Citizens Into Scientists Using Paper And Cell Phones

The monthly Science on Tap series returns to Common Roots Brewing Company.

Water drop representing sustainability. — Learn about innovative methods for measuring contamination of drinking water.

On Wednesday, February 25, at 7 pm, science meets suds in the best possible way. The monthly Science on Tap series returns to Common Roots Brewing Company with a timely and thought-provoking talk: Turning All Citizens into Scientists using Paper and Cell Phones.

Presented by Skidmore College Environmental Studies and Sciences Department and Sustainable Saratoga, this free, all-ages event invites the public to pull up a chair, order a bite, and engage directly with cutting-edge research that has real-world impact—from drinking water safety to global health diagnostics.

The talk begins promptly at 7 pm. Admission is free. Arrive early to grab a table and settle in.

What is Science on Tap?

Science on Tap is a monthly series of informal talks led by scientists who explore current research and its relevance to everyday life. Organizers intentionally host these conversations in relaxed pub settings, where questions flow as easily as the local craft beer.

locally produced craft beer on tap — Science On Tap is a monthly series of informal talks led by scientists that explore current research topics in a relaxed pub atmosphere.

The series reflects the intellectual energy of the greater Capital Region and aims to promote scientific literacy in an accessible, community-driven format. Instead of a lecture hall, attendees find themselves in a welcoming brewery. Instead of academic jargon, they hear clear explanations and can ask direct questions.

In short: it’s science without the gatekeeping.

Meet the speaker.

On February 25, the spotlight turns to Kim Frederick, whose research at Skidmore College pushes the boundaries of citizen science.

For decades, advanced scientific testing remained confined to laboratories with expensive equipment. That reality excluded communities from directly evaluating the safety of their own water, medicine, or environment. Frederick and her lab aim to change that.

Their work aligns with the World Health Organization’s REASSURED standards—guidelines that call for diagnostic tools that are Real-time, Easy, Affordable, Sensitive, Specific, User-friendly, Rapid and robust, Equipment-free, and Deliverable.

Frederick’s solution? Paper and a cell phone.

How paper and smartphones can change science.

Frederick’s lab develops microfluidic paper analytical devices—also known as µPADs. These paper-based testing devices use simple chemical reactions embedded in paper channels. A smartphone camera then measures and analyzes the results.

The technology sounds deceptively simple. The impact is anything but.

Her team has developed devices that:

Measure drinking water contamination linked to hydrofracking wells
Verify proper dosage levels in antibiotic tablets
Create urine-based diagnostic tools for malaria detection

These innovations dramatically reduce cost and complexity. Instead of shipping samples to a lab, communities can conduct meaningful testing on-site. Instead of waiting weeks for results, users can analyze data in real time.

For Adirondack residents and visitors who care about clean water, environmental protection, and public health, the implications resonate deeply.

A view of Lake George’s pristine waters from Cook Mountain. Photo courtesy Lake George Land Conservancy.

Why this matters locally.

The Adirondack Park and the surrounding Capital Region rely on pristine waterways, responsible development, and informed citizens. Conversations about sustainability often center on large systems and policy decisions. Frederick’s work brings the conversation back to the individual.

What local water issues deserve attention? Could low-cost testing empower rural communities? How might citizen science reshape environmental stewardship?

Science on Tap creates space for these questions.

Rather than delivering a one-way presentation, Frederick invites dialogue. Attendees can discuss local concerns, explore potential research applications, and imagine how simple tools might address complex problems.

Plan your visit.

Science on Tap takes place Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 7 pm at Common Roots Brewing Company in South Glens Falls. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome.

Come early for dinner and craft beverages. Stay for a lively, accessible conversation about the future of science and sustainability.

For more details, visit Sustainable Saratoga’s website or Common Roots Facebook page.

In a region defined by natural beauty and community engagement, this event offers something different: the chance to hold science in your own hands.