Online and Sandy Bay
Summary:How do we build trust in science in the age of social media? Dr Kirsten Banks explores the future of science communication in the 2026 Japanangka errol West Lecture.
Presenter(s):
- Dr Kirsten Banks, Astrophysicist and science communicator
- Professor Sadie Heckenberg, Pro Vice-Chancellor Aboriginal Leadership and Director of the Institute of Indigenous Knowledges at the University of Tasmania
2026 Japanangka errol West Lecture
How do we build trust in science in the age of social media?
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.
Speakers
Dr Kirsten Banks, Astrophysicist and science communicator
Dr Kirsten Banks is an astrophysicist, Wiradjuri woman, and science communicator dedicated to making the universe accessible and inspiring for all. With a PhD in astrophysics, Kirsten blends cutting-edge research with Indigenous astronomical knowledge, sharing a unique perspective on the cosmos. Her mission is to spark curiosity, celebrate diversity in science, and break down complex ideas into engaging stories that resonate with audiences of all ages. Through public talks, media, and education, she champions evidence-based science, combats misinformation, and highlights the richness of Indigenous sky traditions, ensuring everyone can see themselves reflected in the stars.
Facilitated by Professor Sadie Heckenberg, Pro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Excellence and Director, Institute of Indigenous Knowledges at the University of Tasmania
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.
The Japanangka errol West Legacy
This annual event honours the life and work of the late Japanangka errol West, an internationally recognised poet, scholar and leading Tasmanian Aboriginal academic. He was renowned for his contributions to Indigenous methodologies and pedagogies, and was a pioneer of what has since become a global body of scholarship grounded in Indigenous perspectives. The lecture continues his legacy by championing diverse narratives and ways of knowing, while reflecting one of his defining qualities: a deep and unwavering intellectual generosity.
Parking:
Free parking, including accessible spaces, is available at the venue.
Pre-event refreshments:
Head to the venue early and enjoy complimentary refreshments from 5.30pm.
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