In an age of misinformation and growing challenges to public trust in science, this transatlantic event brings together leading voices from research, journalism, and science communication to discuss how evidence can be included in a public discourse with ever changing rules and technology. Especially in the field of health, a scientifically informed public matters for building resilient, innovative societies.

Speakers include Ellen Horne (New York University), Vivian Trakinski (American Museum of Natural History), and Soren Wheeler (WNYC, Radiolab), Helen Fischer (Heidelberg) and Marvin Fendt (LMU Munich) moderated by Bernhard Goodwin (Munich Science Communication Lab).

The panel brings together five complementary angles on science, health, and public discourse: Ellen Horne addresses how scientifically important topics can be translated into formats that are timely, accessible, and meaningful for broad audiences; Vivian Trakinski highlights the role of immersive, visual, and emotionally engaging communication in making complex science tangible; Soren Wheeler adds the dimension of storytelling and engagement with a podcast audience; Helen Fischer contributes insights from cognitive psychology on misinformation, and metacognition, including how well people understand their own knowledge and knowledge gaps; and Marvin Fendt focuses on experimental work on trust in science and resilience against misinformation. Together, these angles capture how scientific evidence is communicated, experienced, interpreted, trusted, and challenged in society.

Date and Time: Tuesday, May 19, 2026, 6-8pm

Location: German House, 871 UN Plaza, NY, NY 10017

More Information: https://www.dwih-newyork.org/en/event/trust-evidence-and-misinformation-in-public-discourse/