Nerd Nite Memphis

About this event

We’re getting together for a laid-back evening of fellowship, company, and some thought-provoking fun at **Nerd Nite**—a series of engaging presentations (think TED Talks). There’s no assigned reading or discussion topic this time—just a chance to connect with fellow Stoics and enjoy the evening. Whether you’re new to the group or a regular face, we’d love to see you there! **About Nerd Nite** Nerd Nite Memphis brings together a curious community through informal talks on research, culture, art, and everyday life—building connection through shared ideas. Nerd culture is for everyone: every interest, hobby, sport, and field of research, and everything you know (and think we should know, too!). Join us every third Friday of the month. **Presentations** **1) Sean M. Gary** **Title:** Tradition, Identity, & Institution in 21st Century Country Music **Affiliation:** University of Memphis **Bio:** Sean M Gary is currently a PhD candidate at the University of Memphis, studying musicology. With an inter-disciplinary cognate in sociology, anthropology, and history, he is particularly interested in the intersections between various genres of folk and popular music and identity. His work focuses on how music historically and contemporarily functions in our lives with special interest in music’s ability to both inspire and reflect social change. **2) Emily Puckett** **Title:** Genes and Junk DNA: but make it colorful, and with bears. **Affiliation:** University of Memphis The talk is about how different types of DNA variation can lead to the same phenotypic outcome. **Bio:** Emily Puckett is an Associate Professor at the University of Memphis. Her Research Group studies the evolutionary and conservation genomics of bears, especially the American black bear. **Learn more about the Nerd Nite Memphis event [here](https://www.meetup.com/nerd-nite-memphis/events/312024518/?eventOrigin=group_upcoming_events).** We are not meeting for dinner beforehand but the Memphis Chess…