Committee Sponsored Sessions Saturday

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

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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!