The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Welcomes Dr. Rebecca Bercich as 2025 Visiting Scientist, Inspiring Future Scientists with Real-World Sustainability Solutions
Indianapolis, INThe Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is excited to welcome Dr. Rebecca Bercich as the 2025 Eli Lilly and Company Visiting Scientist. Dr. Bercich, an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, is well known for her work in sustainable design, innovative recycling and real-world science education. Her expertise in these areas will enrich the museum’s sustainability programs, inspiring young minds to think responsibly when it comes to the environment and will help children see themselves as future problem-solvers.
“Dr. Bercich’s passion for sustainability will aid the museum’s continuing sustainability efforts and help us create hands-on educational programming that makes scientific ideas easy for families to understand,” said Don Riefler, Science Programs Manager at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. “It is our goal to have her encourage girls and young women to see themselves in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) careers, sparking curiosity and passion for fields like engineering and and environmental science.”
“What I'm most looking forward to as the Visiting Scientist is creating ‘Aha!’ moments for kids--moments when they discover something new about their world or make a connection to what they already know.”
Dr. Bercich’s current research focuses on closed-loop plastic recycling (a method that turns used plastics into new products without creating waste or pollution). Dr. Bercich is the Director of Precious Plastic reTHink, a Terre Haute-based organization. In that capacity, she received a grant from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to establish a plastic upcycling center that transforms post-consumer plastics and serves as a community education hub. This initiative, and her collaboration with reTHink, Inc., aligns closely with the museum’s mission of promoting sustainability and resourcefulness among the next generation.
Dr. Bercich’s work doesn’t stop at sustainability—she has also pioneered technologies in neuromuscular interfaces for amputees, earning a patent and advancing myoelectric prosthetic technology. Recognized within the engineering field, she has shared her knowledge with future engineers through Women in Engineering programs, inspiring countless students to pursue STEM fields.
Visitors to the museum in 2025 will have the unique opportunity to meet Dr. Bercich through interactive demonstrations, workshops, and family-friendly talks about sustainability and renewable energy.
The Children’s Museum and the Eli Lilly and Company Foundation are committed to showcasing successful women in STEM as positive role models. The Visiting Scientist program, made possible through the generous support of the Eli Lilly and Company Foundation, seeks to connect young minds with accomplished women making significant contributions to STEM fields.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is proud to partner with Riley Children’s Health, Old National Bank, Ice Miller LLP, and The Heritage Group.
