SCIENCE IN STORYTELLING
19 & 20 March 2026
Science in Storytelling is back, and this time we’ll be completely online!
We’re bringing the 2026 edition of Science in Storytelling to you in the comfort of your own home, or wherever you happen to be; on shoot or out on location in some remote corner of the world.
This event brings scientists and filmmakers together in a symbiosis of minds to learn, collaborate and share how best to keep science at the heart of our natural world stories.
Our Aims
- Highlight the importance of nurturing relationships between those with knowledge, and those that want to share it.
- Platform successful case studies of scientists and filmmakers coming together to communicate science effectively and creatively.
Discover our Passes
Book your tickets today and join us for two days of panel talks, Q&As, networking and collaboration.
Online Passes
Want to meet up with other delegates in-person? Join us for Networking Drinks after we wrap up on the first day! FREE for SinS ticket holders and discounts available for NatureStory Pro Members and account holders.
Programme Highlights
Building on insights and feedback from last year’s event, Science in Storytelling 2026 will feature thought-provoking panel discussions and engaging lightning talks. Together, they will dive into cutting-edge themes, including:
Filmmaking for policy change
We’ll be speaking with filmmakers and organisations who use the power of film to drive policy change, from shaping closed-room conversations with decision-makers, to influencing behaviour change and action at scale, while maintaining scientific rigour and clarity.
Speakers include Kaleem Luthra & Sofija Korf from the Environmental Justice Foundation, with more to be announced.
Podcasting science
Focusing on the realities of communicating science through podcasting, this conversation explores how complex environmental stories can be made accessible and meaningful to build trust and drive impact.
Joined by the team behind Black Earth Podcast, we’ll explore their science-rooted, interview-led approach to sharing nature and climate expertise and the contributions of Black female Earth Keepers working to care for our planet.
Immersive science communication (VR & AR)
This session explores how emerging technologies are being used to deepen understanding, empathy and engagement with natural world storytelling. We’ll be speaking with scientists, production companies and immersive technology specialists about how this innovative space can be harnessed to create deeper connections to science and the natural world.
Speakers: Alex Ranken, Maruša Levstek, Ulrico Grech-Cumbo, moderated by Mitch Turnbull
Commissioning science content
A conversation offering insight into commissioning science and natural history storytelling, and how projects are shaped with specific platforms and audiences in mind.
Speakers include: Tom Coveney, Gabrielle Ewing, Jonah Weston, Diana El-Osta, moderated by Anwar Mamon
Micro-storytelling and digital platforms
How successful communicators (including YouTubers and filmmakers) are approaching short-form storytelling to engage audiences with science, nature and environmental issues.
Speakers include: Sonya Lee, Stephanie Sammann, Jamie Zaccaria
Our full programme can be found below!
What's Included?
Online Pass
Join us online across two days for a full programme putting science in the spotlight. Your pass will include:
- Full Access to Science in Storytelling 19th & 20th March 2026
- Online Networking Opportunities
- FREE ticket to in-person Networking Drinks on Thursday 19th March at Wildscreen HQ*
- 25% off for all NatureStory Pro members (12% off for NatureStory account holders)
*When you purchase your online pass to Science in Storytelling, you will receive a code in your confirmation email.
Programme
Explore some of our Science in Storytelling 2025 highlights below.
Artificial Intelligence: An Altruist's Guide
09:45 – 10:45
Speakers: Kathryn Webb, Prem Gill, Dr. Sam Reynolds
In an age of augmented reality and artificial intelligence, how do we define authenticity in the natural world storytelling space. Is there a space for ethical AI use in creative sectors, if so, where and how? Can we learn from scientists and other industry’s use of AI for good and apply this to the wildlife filmmaking industry.
From Science to Screen
11:55 – 12:15 – a Lightening Talk!
Speakers: Bill Markham & Martha Holmes
Hear from the brains that brought you “A Real Bug’s Life”, focusing on how you take your scientificially grounded idea to the screen. From research and concept development to storytelling techniques, we’ll uncover the creative process of translating complex scientific concepts into engaging narratives.
The Science Behind "Our Oceans"
14:30 – 15:30
Speakers: Steve Simpson, Megan Soulsby, James Honeyborne, Dr. Dorothy Dankel
This panel explores the science and storytelling behind Netflix’s “Our Oceans”. Experts and filmmakers discuss the groundbreaking research, technology, and conservation efforts that shaped the series, highlighting how captivating visuals and narratives communicate the urgent need for ocean conservation and protect marine ecosystems.
Into the Unknown: Science, Exploration and Storytelling
15:45 – 16:45
Speakers: Tom Mcdonald, Lizzie Daly, Dr. Leigh Hickmott Sheena Talma, Dr. Andreas Alexander
This panel delves into the extreme world of scientific exploration and the vital role of storytelling in documenting these journeys. From uncovering new discoveries to pushing human limits, experts will discuss why capturing these expeditions is essential for scientific advancement, education, and inspiring future generations to explore the unknown.
Sponsored by Peregrine Risk Management
Speakers
Meet our fantastic line-up of speakers at Science in Storytelling 2026
Alex Ranken
Creative Director, Wildlife, Plimsoll Productions
Marion Atieno Osieyo
Creator and Host, Black Earth Podcast
Ulrico Grech-Cumbo
Founder & CEO, Habitat XR
Sofija Korf
Video Producer, Environmental Justice Foundation
Jamie Zaccaria
Media and Outreach Coordinator, Ocean Exploration Trust
Tom Coveney
Head of Science Commissioning, BBC
Caz Watson
Impact Producer, Black Earth Podcast
Erin Ranney
Cinematographer
Mitch Turnbull
Senior Producer & Director at Bramble Media and Senior Research Associate in Immersive Natural History Experiences at University of Bristol
Stephanie Sammann
Creator, RealScience YouTube
Sophie Pavelle
Author and Science Communicator
Ariel Waldman
Filmmaker & Explorer, Order of Magnitude Films
Gabrielle Ewing,
Director of Programming, PBS Digital Studios
Maruša Levstek
Lecturer in Technology and Culture @StoryFutures, Royal Holloway, University of London | User Research Lead, CoSTAR National Lab | Story Associate, AKO Storytelling Institute, UAL
Sonya Lee
Producer-Director, Plankton Productions
Kaleem Luthra
Senior UK Advocacy Officer – Ocean and Climate, Environmental Justice Foundation
Rutendo Shackleton
Conservation Scientist & Presenter of Nature, Nurture & Nonsense Podcast
Anwar Mamon
Executive Producer and Director of Development, Wildstar Films
Diana El-Osta
Senior Director of Multiplatform Programming and Development, PBS
Allison Fong
Principal Scientist,
Allison Fong Science and FeelThink Studio
Tom Williams
Co-Executive Producer, Nutopia TV
Manon Calas
Storytelling & Social Media Coordination, Global Rewilding Alliance
Jonah Weston
Commissioning Editor for Science and Adventure, Channel 4
Lauren de Vos
Marine Biologist (PhD), Science Writer & Conservation Storyteller, Save our Seas Foundation
2025
In March 2025, Wildscreen hosted the Science in Storytelling event in Bristol. The event featured a programme with four panels, four lightning talks, plus three networking opportunities during the day.
number of delegates, both online and in-person.
academic, science and television production organisations in attendance.
said they would return to a future Science in Storytelling event, online and in-person.
Event FAQs
This event took place on March 24th 2025. Sign up to our newsletter to stay up to date on future events.
In the Lantern Hall at the new Bristol Beacon. On arrival to the Beacon there will be signs and volunteers to point you in the right direction of the Lantern Hall.
The Bristol Beacon is fully accesible.
Access information:
- Step-free access: Yes
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Assisted Listening: Yes
- Guide/assistance dog-friendly: Yes
- Quiet spaces available: Yes
- Disabled parking: Trenchard Street car park across the road
Requests to transfer your ticket to an alternative person must be made in writing to [email protected] by the 1st March 2024. Such requests shall be approved or denied by Wildscreen in its sole discretion and a fee may be charged.
Yes! There is an 'online only' ticket for those that aren't able to attend the event in person. You should recieve a link to access the live stream via vimeo. If you havent recieved your link by March 20th please contact [email protected].uk
No, tickets must be purchased in advance due to health and safety and materials provisions.
Once purchased or booked, tickets cannot be refunded or returned unless the event / screening is cancelled or moved to another date.
During the standard ticket pricing period, a special concession rate will be available at a massive 50% discount from the full pass price, to welcome an even wider audience to our event.
You are eligible for this rate if you fall under one of these categories:
- Under 25 years old
- Student in full-time education
- 65 years old or over
- Unemployed
Please be prepared to provide proof of eligibility if requested. If you are unsure, please email the team at [email protected].
You should be aware that you may be photographed or filmed at times throughout the event and the recordings may be distributed.
Visitors must be aged 18 or over to attend Wildscreen Events. We reserve the right to seek confirmation of age if we consider it necessary and you agree to provide such proof of identity and age as we consider reasonably necessary from time to time.
Registration includes important Delegate Updates which we will send you via email as well as subscription to our year-round e-news. Delegate updates contain vital information about accessing the Science in Storytelling event. Should you not wish to receive this information, or our year-round e-news, please click on unsubscribe at the bottom of the last email received. We will never share your email or personal details with anyone else without your consent.
We will always respect your privacy and any personal communication between you and ourselves.
If you can't find the answer to your question on our FAQ, don’t hesitate to ask. us: [email protected]