In this episode, we welcome Ashley Tyrer, a neuroscientist and science communicator based in Aarhus, Denmark. Ashley’s research focuses on how our brains deal with uncertainty — why we make the decisions we do, and how our brain chemistry and past experiences shape those choices. But as much as she loves the data, she’s just as passionate about making science accessible to everyone.

Ashley is part of the Organisation for Human Brain Mapping’s Communications Committee (OHBM ComCom), where she leads the blog team and helps turn complex brain research into stories we can all connect with. We talk about why science communication matters to both scientists and the public, the importance of diversity in science, and how being relatable is the only way to build trust. We also touch on how the traditional image of a scientist is changing and the role of citizen science in societal progress.

This conversation is a refreshing reminder that science can and should be for everyone.

What you’ll learn: 👉 How neuroscience is helping us understand our reactions to uncertainty and surprise

👉 How this varies with neurodiversity and mental health conditions

👉 Why diversity, representation, and relatability are key to building public trust in science

👉 The growing role of citizen science and how we can all contribute to scientific discovery

👤 About the Ashley

Ashley Tyrer is a neuroscientist and science communicator based in Aarhus, Denmark. Her research explores how our brains process uncertainty and make decisions, focusing on the role of brain chemistry and individual differences. Beyond the lab, Ashley leads the blog team for the Organisation for Human Brain Mapping’s Communications Committee (OHBM ComCom), where she’s passionate about making neuroscience accessible, fostering diversity in science, and helping bridge the gap between researchers and the public.

Follow Ashely here:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleytyrer/ 

• Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:die4pjz2i5sntut36xzd7z5j 

• Email: [email protected]

• OHBM blog: https://www.ohbm-com.com/

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🔑 Episode Highlights

03:58 Decision Making and Prediction Errors

07:53 The Impact of Neurochemicals on Decision Making

12:23 Challenges in Mental Health Diagnosis

16:18 The Role of Science Communication

20:40 Involvement with OHBM and Science Outreach

26:55 Impact of Research on Daily Life

28:11 Understanding Brain Bites

30:28 The Role of Communication in Science

32:55 Challenges in Science Communication

38:01 Engagement and Community Feedback

40:01 Effective Science Communication Techniques

48:23 Advice for Aspiring Science Communicators

📲 Connect with The SciComm Spectrum

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thescicommspectrum 

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/youtube-scriptwriter/ 

Music by music_for_video from Pixabay 18169

Animations by TinMouse Studios

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