Science is full of emotion, curiosity, surprise, frustration, triumph and discovery. From breakthroughs in the lab to ambitious explorations beyond Earth and emerging technologies reshaping how we live, the scientific process is packed with drama, character and unexpected turns.

This year’s Sloan Salon, supported by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, brings together scientists, science communicators and storytellers to explore how real-world discovery across science and technology can spark fresh narratives for the screen. We invite filmmakers to join and learn about ideas that can inspire future projects eligible for Alfred P. Sloan Foundation film grants.

Join us for a dynamic conversation with Latif Nasser (Radiolab, Netflix’s Connected), science entertainer Dr. Kate Biberdorf, UCLA professor Dr. Neil Garg, and Sloan-supported filmmakers David Rafailedes, Sara Crow and Ioana Uricaru.

They’ll explore how scientific breakthroughs can become story engines; where the human heart lives inside scientific and technological exploration; how to balance accuracy and drama without drifting into sci-fi; which research areas are most “story ready” for 2026, and more.
 
Interested in learning about our Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Grants? More information is available here.
 

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Accessibility

Film Independent is committed to hosting events that are accessible. For inquiries regarding accessibility, or to request an accommodation, please contact us at accessibility@filmindependent.org or 323 556 9305.