From 13-15 May, from 6.30-8.30pm each evening, Loughborough University’s research community will be making their way from labs and offices to local cafés, restaurants and pubs to share their research stories.
The bar is set high, when a team of Loughborough doctoral students launched Pint of Science Loughborough in 2023 with a great programme of events which sold out fast and had the second highest attendance in the entire UK campaign.
This year, the organising team in Loughborough Doctoral College are aiming higher still with an even bigger and more diverse programme. Green hydrogen doctoral researcher in Chemical Engineering Esther Mgbemeje and team lead said: “Pint of Science is a great way to talk about research with new audiences. It’s fun, you get to grow your research network, explore exciting synergies, and build great connections with researchers across different disciplines.
The limited-edition Tardigrade (aka Moss Piglet) merchandise including t-shirts were highly sought after last year and we can’t wait to share this year’s cool kit with everyone who is part of #Pint24 Loughborough!”
Professor Dan Parsons, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation at Loughborough, said: “I am absolutely delighted that our doctoral students are once again taking the lead in planning a great programme of events to engage our local communities.
“Pint of Science gives local people a fascinating insight into the real-world relevance of the research that happens across the University, spanning the breadth of our three institutional strategic themes and engages them in lively discussions. And for members of our research community who are new to public engagement, it’s a great place to try out ideas in a supportive peer environment – and most importantly, have fun! I encourage our doctoral students and our staff to get involved!”
To get involved, please sign up to the themes by 13 March, using the links in the programme below.
Atoms to Galaxies
Nanoscience (relating to particle physics, chemistry, quantum physics, etc).
Mathematics/Physics (Includes pure mathematics, theoretical physics, maths education, etc).
Space (relating to astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, etc)
Our Body
Biology (e.g. genetics, stem cell biology, cancer biology, gene editing, neurobiology etc).
Medicine (e.g. drug design, advances in disease therapy, effect of medicines on the human body etc.).
Health (e.g. diet, exercise, sports, nutrition, effect of packaged food on human health etc.)
Planet Earth
Evolution of Our Landscapes – Geographers, civil engineers, chemists, and historians can discuss the physical and human-driven changes to our local, national, and global landscapes.
Watery Worlds – Focuses on the importance, diversity, and challenges of aquatic ecosystems from rivers and lakes to oceans and wetlands.
Future of Our Planet – A panel discussion envisioning what the future may hold for our planet; theories, challenges, and changing environments.
Tech Me Out
Exploring the achievements of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Out of Reality – Virtual reality and Augmented reality.
Securing the Future – Exploring Emerging ICT technologies (cybersecurity, wireless communications etc.) threat and solutions
Creative Reactions
Co-Create Gallery – Displaying visual creative reactions to science in a one-evening gallery space
Bridging the Gap Panel – We will invite collaborating scientists and artists to a panel session to discuss their work together
Open Mic(roscope) Night – An evening of spoken words, music, and any other type of short performance you have!
Our Society
Climate and you – Through a social lens
Mapping Gender Inclusivity in the UK – Past, Present & Future
Is society the same with social media?
Beautiful Mind
Mindfulness – Five speakers with research relating to mindfulness are required to deliver an interactive session and/or panel discussion.
The Power of the Mind – Six current PhD students are required to share their research in Psychology or related fields.
A Night with the Brainy Experts – Two academics are required to share their research in Neuroscience, Psychiatry or related fields and deliver an interactive workshop to the public.