Immaculata University will host a “Science in the Public Square” virtual event on Monday, March 15 at 7 PM via Zoom.

The roundtable discussion explores the tensions between the scientific community and the public and is presented by the Immaculata University Undergraduate Honors Program.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted numerous structural weaknesses in society, but perhaps the most surprising (and possibly the most difficult to fix) is the extent to which there is tension between the scientific community and the public.

The expert panel will discuss mistrust of science and scientists, misinformation in the media ecosystem, methods to enhance public trust, and the policy implications of a skeptical public.

Dr. Kelly Orlando, associate professor of Biology, will moderate the discussion.

Panelists include:

• Dr. Arati Kreibich, special scientific advisor of Charley’s Fund
• Pamela Myers, clinical research coordinator at Thomas Jefferson University
• Dr. Susan Norris, assistant professor of Nursing at Immaculata
• Dr. Joshua Weikert, assistant professor of Politics at Immaculata

“The beauty of a college community is the opportunities it gives us to discuss complex issues from myriad viewpoints,” said Weikert, who directs Immaculata’s Honors Program. “With this roundtable discussion, participants will have an opportunity to engage with a serious concern facing society.”

Click here to join the discussion via Zoom. Meeting ID: 893 2265 7501. Passcode: 432998.