Science On Tap 4/9 In Vancouver: Artificial Intelligence: Conservation And Securing The Future Of Earth (Photo) -03/24/25

Date: Wed, April 9th, 2025

Time: 7 pm

Location: Kiggins Theatre Vancouver, Wa

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: https://www.scienceontaporwa.org/events/kiggins_apr_9_ai/

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a lightning rod topic of conversation and energy from the streets, to board rooms, and to governments around the world.

 

What is going on? Where did AI come from? Why does AI matter to the future of the planet?

 

There are seemingly endless media stories and news articles and public opinions on the goings-on of AI, and as many opinions and answers as there are questions. Scientist and AI Leader Emily Soward will cut to the point on the current state of AI and raise awareness of near and far term challenges for planet Earth. 

 

We will look at case studies to understand:
*where AI is best being used
*limitations of AI and how scientists are addressing them
* where AI came from including what motivates AI in the first place

 

Through these studies we will contextualize AI’s relevance across the disciplines of conservation, ecology, sustainability, security, and privacy. Walk away with a brighter understanding of the AI landscape, insights into why it matters for our shared global future, and top tips for making informed decisions when evaluating externalities for AI use.

No AI, technical, conservation, or security experience needed!

 

Emily Soward works for Amazon Web Services and is the founding Vice President, Board of Directors for The Ecological Archive, a 501c3 dedicated to advancing research intersecting AI and ecology. She provides technical and strategic leadership in safety, security, trust, and privacy for AI systems and advances research around thorny issues in implementing technology that can benefit the planet by contributing to open science and open security initiatives.

 

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Science on Tap is a science lecture series where you can sit back, drink a pint, and enjoy learning. Listen to experts talk about the science in your neighborhood and around the world. You don't have to be a science geek to have fun--all you need is a thirst for knowledge! For more information on this event or about Science on Tap, visit Science on Tap OR WA.

Science On Tap 3/26 In NE Portland: Storytelling With Data: Great Graphs, Bad Logos, & The Ethics Of Data Visualization (Photo) -03/12/25

Date: Wed, March 26th

Time: 7 pm

Location: Alberta Rose Theatre

Tickets: $15-$45

Event Website: scienceontaporwa.org/events/alberta_march_26_data-viz/

 

So much data. So much misrepresentation. In our era, understanding the nuances of effective visual storytelling is more crucial than ever.

 

What is the neuroscience of vision?
The psychology of perception?
How do our brains process visual information?

 

Well-designed graphs can illuminate complex data, making it accessible and engaging for all audiences, while poor design choices, including misleading logos, can distort the truth behind the numbers.

 

Sip on local brews and learn about the aesthetic elements of data visualization AND the ethical responsibilities that come with presenting information. How can we ensure our visuals tell an honest story? What are the implications of data manipulation in public discourse? How to think critically about the visuals you encounter and create, highlighting the ethical dimensions in the context of neuroscience and psychology.

 

Jackie Wirz, PhD, (our own MC!) is a biochemist by training, a nonprofit executive by profession, and a teller of stories. After 15 years of bad graphics as a research scientist, she decided to educate herself on what actually goes into a great visualization. She leveraged these skills as a data management specialist, academic administrator, and as a nonprofit executive. In her spare time she is the MC (mistress of ceremonies) for a variety of events including Science on Tap!

 

Dr. Steven Bedrick is an Associate Professor at OHSU where his research focuses on the intersection of natural language processing and healthcare. He is also interested in the societal and ethical implications that arise from speech and language technology.

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Science on Tap is a science lecture series where you can sit back, drink a pint, and enjoy learning. Listen to experts talk about the science in your neighborhood and around the world. You don't have to