Dr. Scherr’s research program focuses on the communication of risk and uncertainty in health. With training in health communication, public health, and behavioral medicine, her program is applied and interdisciplinary. She is interested in how the communication of risk and uncertainty, particularly informed by medical scientific advancements, impacts patients’ risk perceptions, informed decision-making, and adherence to medical recommendations. To pursue this agenda, I have engaged in a two-part program of research which include: (1) clinical communication of risk and uncertainty and (2) public communication of risk and uncertainty.

Genetics is a specific context in which the successful communication of risk and uncertainty has the potential to significantly decrease morbidity and mortality in preventable or treatable adult-onset conditions (e.g., cancer, cardiology). Consequently, much of my work has focused on genetics and I have applied the methodologies and theories developed in genetics to other contexts where messages of risk and uncertainty exist like early identification of developmental delays and vaccination. What follows is a brief description of my research to date and a description of my future research agenda.

Education

• Postdoctoral Fellowship, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute
• PhD, Applied Health Communication, Purdue University
• MA, Communication, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee
• MA, Double Major – Communication Arts; International Relations, University of Wisconsin, Madison