Public science events are organised by a range of organisations and encompass many activities, including formal lectures, discussions and interactive experiments. These varied events share a common objective of engaging people in science. This engagement takes place on different levels, whether involving adults in a debate on a controversial scientific issue, or simply raising children’s awareness of the world around them.
Whatever the format, public science events provide an interface between scientists and society and, as such, play an important role in raising awareness of and stimulating debate around some of the most important issues in contemporary science. Explore the links below to find out more about the range of science events on offer in the UK.
Events are part of everyday life at the At-Bristol centre and the public can get involved in activities from exploring sustainable energy use to recreating the sounds of a rainstorm or joining the Mad Hatter’s tea party to explore the science behind illusions.
The presenters of BBC One science series, Bang Goes The Theory, tours the nation for two months. People are being given a special invitation to join in the fun and participate in interactive science shows that bring science to life in front of the audiences' eyes.
One of the UK's biggest university Chemistry departments works with both primary and secondary school aged students in a range of lecture demonstrations and practical workshops. These are held at the School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, in schools and are designed to raise aspirations and develop practical skills.
In addition to National Science and Engineering Week (9-18 March 2012) and its annual Festival of Science, the British Science Association runs year-round events to advance public understanding of science. The website allows visitors to search for events by theme, area, or date.
Organises a number of exhibitions to communicate current biotechnology issues to the wider public. Covering topics like nanotechnology, stem cell research and biodiversity, these exhibitions work to present a balanced scientific picture of sometimes controversial developments.
Café Scientifique events provide a unique and relaxed forum for discussing the latest ideas in science and technology in venues such as bars and cafés. There is a Café Scientifique network within the UK which runs regular events. The website also provides information on how to set up your own Café. Our science programme has adapted the concept to engage people around the world. As well as live events, we have developed a video-conference scheme linking audiences in more than one country.
Hosts science events with a difference. Debates about contemporary science, technology and culture are presented in a lively, informal atmosphere where science mixes with art, performance, comedy and multimedia to stimulate discussion and engagement with current scientific issues.
The Institute of Physics website allows visitors to search for public and specialist events in the physical sciences.
Hosts a varied programme of events including interactive exhibitions, firework displays, sleepovers and robot workshops.
Co-ordinates and takes part in a range of both public and specialist events. These include events on specific scientific topics and participation in national science festivals.
Organises debates, conferences, competitions, and exhibitions aimed at a broad range of participants, including the general public, young people, policy makers and business representatives.
Holds regular talks on many different topics at its conference centre in Hertfordshire.
Organises a mixture of lectures, discussions, debates, and workshops. These include the world-famous Christmas Lectures given each December by a prominent scientist and broadcast live across the UK. The events aim to foster dialogue between scientists and society and to encourage the public to take an interest in the important issues raised by contemporary scientific research.
Runs regular public events throughout the year. One of the highlights is the annual Summer Science Exhibition, displaying a selection of exhibits from universities, research institutions and industry to showcase leading UK science and technology research.
Organises and supports a wide variety of activities to promote awareness of the chemical sciences. These include Chemistry Week, held every two years to promote a positive image of chemistry and highlight its importance in our everyday lives.
The scientific equivalent of an arts centre, Science Oxford houses the Hands On science gallery, packed with interactive exhibits and experiments, as well as an information centre and a gallery space with exhibitions. It also runs an exciting series of special events, all with a science, technology or engineering theme. Details of current events are available on the website.
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