Where would we find you at a party: working the room and collecting new friends? Hiding in a corner scrolling your calendar as if something wildly urgent just came up? Or let’s be honest, you didn’t go, but you were pleased to be invited.

Wherever you sit on the extrovert–introvert spectrum, this event is for you.

Join a live episode of Convos with Chordates, the podcast where two scientists talk to fellow chordates (aka humans) in an entirely unscientific way. For National Science Week, two unapologetically loud extroverts and two quietly confident introverts go head to head with science facts, personal anecdotes, and delightfully chaotic commentary. Come for the laughs, stay for the unexpected insights, and leave with a fresh take on your place on the extro–intro scale.

Meet your hosts

Dr Anastasia Shavrova is an award-winning university lecturer passionate about making science fun and accessible. At parties, she is likely oversharing spider sex facts or explaining the evolution of weird mating behaviours across the animal kingdom.

Dr Sammy Burke is a science communicator committed to making science visible and inclusive. An accredited ocean nerd, she will happily talk your ear off at a tide pool, but do not be fooled. Afterwards, you will probably find her at home under a duvet with tea and a good book.

Meet the guests

Dr Inna Osmolovsky is a plant ecologist who loves showing that science is both rigorous and joyful. It is no surprise she studies plants. They are comfortable with long silences and never ask about the weather. Though she now steps out of her bubble more often, her true safe space contains more books than humans.

Just Dave is a self-proclaimed expert in nothing and everything, driven purely by curiosity. Without a formal degree, he built a career exploring the spaces where people struggle to understand each other. Think low-budget peace negotiator, minus the suit, quietly helping others shine.