Committee Sponsored Sessions
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Conversations that Connect: Helping the Public Understand, Trust, and Engage with Science
Sponsored by the AAI Public Communications Committee
Saturday, April 18, 2026
8:00 – 9:30 AM
No fee, registration not required
Chairs:
- Ross Kedl, Univ. of Colorado Anschutz, USA, Chair of AAI’s Public Communications Committee
- Aimee Pugh-Bernard, Univ. of Colorado Anschutz, USA, Member of AAI’s Public Communications Committee
Panel members:
- Jess Steier, The Evidence Collective, Unbiased Science, @unbiasedscipod
- Liz Marnik, The Evidence Collective, Those Nerdy Girls, @sciencewhizliz
- Yasmin Mohseni, Member of AAI’s Public Communications Committee, @doctor.yas_
In an era where misinformation spreads quickly, and public trust in science is increasingly strained, scientists have a unique opportunity—and responsibility—to help close the gap.
This dynamic panel brings together leading voices in science and health communication for a practical, candid conversation about how scientists can communicate more effectively, more empathetically, and with greater impact.
Panelists will share strategies for:
- Engaging with empathy when discussing complex or emotionally charged topics
- Navigating challenging conversations with the public in an environment saturated with myths and competing narratives
- Using social media as a scientist to build meaningful connections and foster trust
- Translating research into relatable stories without losing scientific integrity
Whether you’re new to science communication or looking to sharpen your skills, this session offers insights, real-world examples, and actionable techniques you can use right away.
Bring your questions, this will be an interactive, energizing discussion you won’t want to miss!