Dietram A. Scheufele

Dr. Dietram A. Scheufele is a Professor and Taylor-Bascom Chair at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Department of Life Sciences Communication, part of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. He also serves as a Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professor and Investigator at the Morgridge Institute for Research. Scheufele is an internationally recognized leader in science communication, misinformation research, and the societal impacts of emerging technologies like AI and synthetic biology.

Education includes a B.A. (equivalent) from Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz (Public Communication), and M.A. and Ph.D. in Journalism/Mass Communication from UW-Madison. He holds affiliate appointments in the Center for European Studies, Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies, and Neuroscience & Public Policy Program.

Research focuses on algorithmic information environments, public engagement with science, and the ethical governance of AI. His work bridges academia and practice, with consulting for institutions like the World Bank and WHO. Scheufele chairs the Rita Allen Foundation’s Civic Science Committee and serves on boards such as the Klaus Tschira Stiftung.

Teaching accolades include UW-Madison’s Spitzer Excellence in Teaching Award. He has held visiting roles at Harvard, Cornell, and European universities. Over 300 publications span monographs and peer-reviewed articles on topics like misinformation, open science, and science policy.

Awards include election to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and German National Academy of Science and Engineering. He is a fellow of multiple scientific societies, including the AAAS and International Communication Association.