From the chemistry behind pyromania to developing vaccines aimed at combating Ebola, experts at Plymouth University will be sharing their views and news on a host of topical issues as part of a national science programme.
British Science Week, formerly known as National Science and Engineering Week, is a ten day celebration of the best of British science, technology, engineering and maths with a line-up of fascinating, entertaining and engaging events across the UK.
Science in the News Explained will see three speakers from Plymouth University address a public audience before opening up to questions and debate. Professor Camille Parmesan, renowned for her research on the impact of climate change on wildlife, Dr Michael Jarvis from the Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, who is working on developing an effective vaccine to protect Gorillas from Ebola, and Ali Hood, Director of Conservation at the Shark Trust, will be taking to the stage at the Plymouth Museum and Art Gallery at 6pm on 19 March.
Rebekah Cioffi, Plymouth University Postgraduate student and co-organiser of the event said it was part of a number of events being offered across the city:
“We have teamed up with the Plymouth Museum and Art Gallery to provide this opportunity for the public to meet new people, learn something interesting and put those burning questions to the experts.”
During British Science Week, the University will also be hosting groups of students from schools and colleges across the South West. Over three days, the University Outreach team expect to welcome around 1,000 visitors from years 6-12, to explore the latest research and learn about ‘pyromania’ chemistry, marine ecosystems, robotics, and engineering, to name but a few topics!
For this event, Plymouth University will be working with local employers to showcase the rage of graduate opportunities available in STEM subjects. Booked groups will have the chance to speak with employers such as the National Marine Aquarium, Specsavers and the NHS, who will be sharing their take on how science is part of our everyday life.
Isobel Rossiter, Head of Student Recruitment and Admissions, said:
“Visitors will have the chance to sample what studying at higher education might offer them and, working alongside local employers, we will showcase the range of opportunities open to our graduates to inspire every student to reach their full potential.”
The National event runs from 13-22 March with Plymouth University hosting inspiring talks and demonstrations from 18-20 March.