Melanie Trecek-King

This week features Melanie Trecek-King, an Associate Professor of Biology and science communicator, who tackles the urgent issue of combating misinformation. She discusses the nuances of autism and the dangers of misrepresenting scientific facts. The conversation also dives into innovative advancements like lab-grown teeth and AI's role in detecting gravitational waves. With a mix of lighthearted anecdotes and serious discussions, the episode highlights the crucial need for critical thinking in science education.

Join Melanie Trecek-King, a biology professor turned science communicator, as she shares insights on critical thinking education and battling misinformation. She reveals how her frustration with traditional science teaching led her to focus on developing skills for assessing information rather than rote facts. The conversation touches on the psychological roots of biases, the challenges of engaging with misinformation on social media, and the essential role of personal connections in fostering trust in science—all served with a dose of humor!