Dating the Dead: What Makes a Connection Real?

What makes a connection feel real on and off the dating apps, and how does technology shape what we seek from one another? Join us for an interactive discussion inspired by For Human Use, with special guest author Sarah G. Pierce, who will share the inspiration behind her novel and join the conversation. Dating Lab NYC is a monthly series exploring the psychology, culture, and technology shaping modern connection. Expect a research-informed presentation, open discussion, an anonymous audience survey, and time to meet other curious New Yorkers. We’ll wrap up with a book giveaway and author signing. No advance reading needed. Come curious. Presented and facilitated by Becky Berg Becky is a behavioral researcher with a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Columbia University. She has studied romantic relationships at Columbia’s Couples Lab and NYU’s Love Smarter Lab and now conducts independent research on dating apps and modern connection. 🍻 A little extra hospitality from PubKey Dating Lab attendees get $2 off draft beers and well spirits during our October 15 event, 6:30–8:30 PM. Just tell the bartender you’re with Dating Lab! Drink offer for ages 21+. Schedule 6:30 PM — Drinks, food, introductions, and anonymous audience survey 7:00 PM — Presentation and interactive discussion with special guest Sarah G. Pierce 8:00 PM — Book giveaway, author signing, and networking until 8:30 PM In partnership with Cohort Cohort is a community of builders, creatives, and founders supporting one another in developing ideas and fostering genuine connections in NYC. 📸 Photography Notice Photos and videos may be taken during the event and shared on social media or our websites. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let us know when you arrive, and we’ll keep you out of frame. More from Cohort Keep building, exploring ideas, and meeting the community. Find your next gathering below. Explore & connect Open Talks: Generative AI & the Meaning of Art Wed, Oct 14 A community conversation about generative AI, creativity, and the meaning of art. The Crawling Dead: Halloween Food Crawl Sat, Oct 31 A Halloween afternoon food walk through Brownstone Brooklyn, with local bites and spooky stoops. Build together Monday Founders Coworking Pods Small groups, shared goals, weekly accountability. Oct 19 · Oct 26 · Nov 2 Wednesday Coworking Work alongside founders, builders, creatives, and researchers. Oct 21 · Oct 28 · Nov 4 Check our full calendar for more events →