The University of Aberdeen is gearing up for an exciting mix of shows, talks, comedy and discovery,as part of a European wide celebration taking place this Friday (September 26).
Over 6,000 people are expected to engage with around 200 researchers across Scotland as part of European Researchers’ Night featuring events in Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Led by the University of Aberdeen, the evening – entitled EXPLORATHON - will showcase the cutting-edge research being conducted in the nation’s universities using a range of exciting and interactive formats for all the family.
The Aberdeen programme boasts a variety of events featuring over 50 researchers. Highlights include a keynote lecture with Scientific Adviser to the European Commission, Professor Anne Glover CBE. Professor Glover will provide an insight into how the European Commission is supporting some of the most ground-breaking research and innovation being carried out today.
The lecture will also feature Professor Pete Smith, Professor Jillian Anable and Professor Neil Gow who will discuss how European collaboration is helping to tackle some of society’s biggest challenges from climate change to superbugs.
The lecture will take place at King’s College Centre at 6pm and while admission is free, pre-booking is recommended. Tickets can be reserved through Aberdeen Box Office by calling 01224 641122.
Meanwhile, throughout the afternoon and evening, shoppers at Union Square will be able to get involved with real live science as research buskers join some of our leading academics to showcase and demonstrate their work. Visitors will have a chance to get involved in experiments including our Face Lab research group who will put recognition skills to the test with their passport photo challenge.
For those looking for humour, Bright Club Aberdeen at Café Drummonds will be taken over by award winning comedian Helen Keen and researchers who will be delving into the world of stand-up comedy to engage audiences in a vibrant and lively manner.
For the whole family, a marathon evening at Satrosphere will offer something for everyone. Come and see “10 ways to explain the Universe in your kitchen” in the show theatre or visit insect lab – hosted by Dr John Baird and his team. Star gazers will also be able hear from astrophysicist James Reid as he explores Aberdeen’s winter skies in the Planetarium. The kilted chef will be making an appearance as he and Dr Alex Johnstone explore healthy eating and how to make the perfect pancake.
Other events taking place as part of the Aberdeen programme include an unusually competitive Café Scientifique at Waterstones Union Bridge, a fascinating insight into our Aberdonian ancestors at Aberdeen Maritime Museum and a special edition of our popular Pechakucha night at the Belmont Filmhouse.
Dr Ken Skeldon, Head of Public Engagement with Research, said: “We’re delighted to be coordinating events across Scotland as part of the European Researchers’ Night initiative. In Aberdeen, our Explorathon programme will offer a varied and exciting programme with something for everyone."
Dr Rhiannon Thompson, local coordinator for the evening added: “The night will showcase the innovative research taking place in Aberdeen and highlight its importance and relevance to a general public audience, while stimulating young people to consider subject choices and pathways that could lead to research, discovery and innovation based careers.”
For more information and to book for events taking place as part of EXPLORATHON in Aberdeen visit www.explorathon.co.uk/aberdeen or follow the event @ERNSCOT on twitter and www.facebook.com/ERNSCOT.