Bright Minds, Bold Voices: Food, science and the stories we swallow

Overview

What happens when an influential Australian changemaker meets a trailblazing scientist?

To find out, join the Australian Academy of Science for the 2026 Public Speaker Series 'Bright Minds, Bold Voices'.

In conversation with ABC Canberra's Lish Fejer, you'll hear from two superstars of food and nutrition: cook, writer and broadcaster, Adam Liaw, and food and nutrition scientist, Dr Emma Beckett.

Together, they will unpack the five basic tastes, what makes "good food" and the biology, psychology and evolution that shape eating habits. You'll leave with fresh takes and practical ideas that will transform how you think about your next bite.

Audiences, both in person and online, will have the opportunity to engage with speakers in the Q&A session.

The Academy's public speaker series is for everyone! Students, professionals, academics, lifelong learners, and those simply curious about why we eat the way we eat.