Come talk to me at Science Uncovered, a free evening of science-based fun and frolics this Friday 26 September!
Science Uncovered is a free evening event at the Museum. Come talk to me and other scientists about research, play games, ask some questions, have a few drinks and lots of fun!
At last year's Science Uncovered we had just under ten thousand people visiting the Museum in South Kensington and Tring and we hope to have just as good a turn out this year.
On the night there will be three main zones at the Museum:
- Origins and Evolution
- Biodiversity
- Sustainabilty
Each zone will have a range of science stations and activites related to the zone's theme. I will be at the Parasites and Pests station in the sustainability zone (which I am delighted to inform you is ideally placed near the cocktail bar!). Do come talk to me. We will have some great stuff for you to look at, including:
- Live (uninfected) aquatic snails.
- Portable microscope with samples of the schistosome blood fluke and eggs to look at.
- Pickled schistosome worms preserved in ethanol (not for consumption just to look at).
- Fieldwork equipment including the kit used to look for schistosome eggs, to filter eggs and collect the larval stage for DNA work and snail collecting material.
- Games: Schistosome life cycle jigsaw puzzles.
- Food: glittery parasite-shaped chocolates for consumption at your own risk (no parasites within, they are just shaped like parasites. Please note I make these myself so they may include nuts and other allergens).
Come see schistosome eggs under the microscope.
Take a look at our friendly live aquatic worms.
Do you dare to sample my homemade parasite-shaped chocolates? They're getting their edible glitter suits on for this special occasion.
But this is just at our blood fluke station, I have heard exciting things about what others have planned for their stations, including bringing out shark samples and live animals, creating your own earthquake and of course the recently discovered Dr Livingstone's Beetle collection (covered by the press in this article) and much, much more. For more information on what's going on have a look at the Science Uncovered webpage.
What is Science Uncovered?
At Science Uncovered researchers showcase their research in engaging, interestings ways and chat with people about what they do, why they do it and why it's fun/important/interesting.
Science Uncovered is part of the European Researchers Night, funded by the European Commision. Events are taking place on Friday 26 September in about 200 cities across 43 countries.
The main outcomes we are aiming for are:
- to raise awareness of the key role of research in soceity
- to raise awareness of the wide diversity of people working in research
- to give an understanding of the diverse range of research careers
- to inspire the public to take part in other science activities
- to encourage young people/students and their parents to consider careers in science
So when you come to the event and you're walking around the Museum looking at all the exciting activities, discoveries and discussions, do ask scientists a bit about their background, how they got into science, why they enjoy it, and anything else that takes your fancy. We are all wearing badges saying "I'm a scientist, talk to me". Please do not feel shy.
I hope to see you there!
