How Social Media Is Changing Science Communication
Description
2026 Japanangka errol West Lecture
Millions of people now turn to TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to understand the world around them. As social media increasingly shapes how we learn about science, who we trust has become just as important as what we know.
Join astrophysicist, Wiradjuri woman and science communicator Dr Kirsten Banks for an engaging keynote exploring how digital platforms are transforming science communication. Drawing on her own experience reaching global audiences online, Kirsten examines how complex ideas can be made accessible without sacrificing accuracy, and what this means for trust, misinformation and public understanding in an increasingly connected world.
Presented as the 2026 Japanangka errol West Lecture, this event honours the legacy of the late Japanangka errol West by celebrating Indigenous ways of knowing, knowledge sharing and intellectual generosity. Through conversation with Professor Sadie Heckenberg following the keynote, the event will explore how different knowledge systems, storytelling traditions and contemporary science communication can deepen public understanding and strengthen trust.
Facilitated by Professor Sadie Heckenberg
Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Excellence) and Director, Institute of Indigenous Knowledges, University of Tasmania.
The Experts
Dr Kirsten Banks, Astrophysicist Science Communicator
Dr Kirsten Banks is a passionate astrophysicist and Lecturer at Swinburne University of Technology, working with the ARC Centre of Excellence for Gravitational Wave Discovery (OzGrav) to connect cutting-edge research with the public. With a PhD in astrophysics and proud Wiradjuri heritage, Kirsten offers a unique perspective in her science communication. She captivates audiences worldwide with her infectious enthusiasm, sharing fun facts and leading workshops to inspire wonder in people of all ages. Join Kirsten on a cosmic journey to explore the wonders of the universe like never before.
Conversation facilitated by Professor Sadie Heckenberg, Pro Vice Chancellor Indigenous Excellence and Director, Institute of Indigenous Knowledges at the University of Tasmania
Professor Sadie Heckenberg is the Pro Vice Chancellor Indigenous Excellence and Director, Institute of Indigenous Knowledges at the University of Tasmania. A Wiradjuri scholar, Sadie’s research focuses on Indigenous methodologies, Cultural Safety, protecting Indigenous spoken knowledge, ethical research frameworks and Indigenous women’s educational experiences. Sadie is committed to ensuring reciprocal, self-determining research and is passionate about empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education. A Fulbright Scholar and United Nations OHCHR Indigenous Fellow, Sadie sits on the Territory System Advisory Council, World Indigenous Nations Higher Education Consortium Board of Accreditation, ARC College of Experts, CSIRO Indigenous Advisory Group and is the Immediate President of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Higher Education Consortium.
Event Schedule
- 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm
Complimentary refreshments available on arrival
Arrive early and enjoy complimentary refreshments before the talk commences. There is free parking, including accessible spaces, available at the venue. Please bring a copy of your printed or electronic ticket to scan on arrival.
- 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Island of Ideas talk
Seating is first come, first served. The event will be live streamed and recorded.
- 7:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Moderated audience Q&A
You are invited to participate in a Q&A directly following the talk.
FAQs
- I can no longer attend in person, can I attend online?
Island of Ideas talks are available to attend either in person or online!
If you would prefer to watch the event live online via Zoom, please register here.
Alternatively, a YouTube livestream will also be available (Q&A is available only through Zoom).
- How can I find out more about Island of ideas events?
Want to learn more about the University of Tasmania's Island of Ideas public talks series?
Catch-up on past events, register for upcoming talks or get in touch with us via our Island of Ideas webpage or subscribe to our mailing list for Island of Ideas updates.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
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