A range of exciting events and activities will be held in Aberdeen next week as the city's two universities team up with Aberdeen Science Centre for an annual celebration of the chemical sciences.
Chemistry Week, which is run by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) from November 20 – 26, provides an opportunity for society members to organise activities that promote chemical sciences to the public.
Among next week’s events are a public lecture at the University of Aberdeen on the role of chemistry in forensic pathology led by Professor James Grieve, who was involved in many high-profile cases during his career in forensic medicine at the University and as forensic pathologist for the north-east.
Meanwhile, Aberdeen Science Centre will host a ‘takeover’ event which will include pop-up chemistry activities for families and the young at heart, including the chance to do some exciting experiments such as making silly putty, magic writing and even making your own volcano.
Professor Marcel Jaspars from the University of Aberdeen is among the team from the RSC’s Aberdeen and North Scotland section who have helped organise next week’s activities.
He said: “RSC Chemistry Week is a great opportunity for our members to promote a positive image of chemistry and sciences, and demonstrate to people within the local community how chemistry is relevant and present in everyday life.
“This year’s theme of ‘Global Science’ gives us a great chance to reflect on the important role of chemistry in solving global challenges, and the range of events that we have planned alongside our partners in RGU and Aberdeen Science Centre reflects that.”
Dr Graeme Kay, academic strategic lead for chemical sciences at Robert Gordon University’s School of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, said: “It is a great delight to once again work with our colleagues across the city to promote science, and in particular Chemistry, to young people in the North East.
“I have little doubt that they will find the activities enlightening and engaging and there is always a palpable excitement at their realisation that through science they can change the world for the better.”
Liz Hodge, Chief Executive of Aberdeen Science Centre said: “We are thrilled to work with the Royal Society of Chemistry to bring Chemistry Week activities to ASC. This will highlight to wider audiences, the positive uses for chemistry in our everyday lives.
"The event will be an amazing addition to our extensive programmes available at the centre 7 days a week.”