The Element of Trust: Chemistry, Ethics, and Real-World Decisions
- Sponsored by ACS Webinars, ACS Communications Division, and C&EN
- 8:00-9:00 am, Online, Free, Registration required
At a time when chemistry and the broader sciences face growing skepticism and shifting political landscapes, communicating scientific findings isn’t just about accuracy, it also requires sound judgment and a deep commitment to the communities we serve.
In this Global Ethics Day panel, professionals from media, academia, and industry will discuss how they navigate the gap between peer-reviewed data and public perception, making difficult decisions about what to say, how to say it, and when it matters most. From environmental forensics after a chemical spill to reporting on gene-editing breakthroughs to scaling green chemistry for commercial markets, explore how experts handle incomplete data, competing priorities, conflicts of interest, and public scrutiny while maintaining credibility. The conversation will highlight how ethical challenges differ across career paths, what they have in common, and why a strong ethical foundation is essential to acting as responsible global citizens during a period of unprecedented pressure on scientific institutions. Register now to be part of the conversation with chemists, engineers, communicators, students, and science advocates to discuss real decisions behind responsible science.
This ACS Webinar is moderated by Natalie Thingelstad of the American Chemical Society and co-produced with ACS Communications Division and Chemical & Engineering News. ACS has brought chemists together for 150 years, creating communities that transcend generations, borders, and disciplines. Join the society as they recognize the power of collective impact, foster belonging in chemistry, and nurture our connections.
What You Will Learn
- Make ethical decisions when the data is incomplete.
Learn practical ways to weigh uncertainty, competing priorities, and potential consequences when deciding what to communicate and when. - Communicate science without compromising credibility. Discover strategies for translating complex or emerging research into accurate, responsible messages that can withstand public scrutiny.
- Navigate ethical challenges across different career paths. Identify common ethical dilemmas in media, academia, and industry and apply principles that help you manage conflicts of interest, pressure, and competing expectations.
Event Details
- Thursday, October 15, 2026 @ 11:00am-12:00pm ET
- Free to attend
- Slides will not be available for this panel discussion
ACS Communications Division