Science Week 2023
Across May and June Birkbeck hosted a week of free and interactive public evening science lectures covering the subject areas of Psychological Sciences, Biological Sciences and Earth and Planetary Sciences, as well as a film screening of Infinite Potential and the return of the annual Rosalind Franklin lecture.
Tuesday 30 May 2023
- Focus on Biological Sciences: Two talks by Birkbeck scientists focused on artificial intelligence and its applications to biology. This was followed by a panel discussion on how science research and education at Birkbeck can be transformative for both individuals and the wider society. There was also the chance to tour Birkbeck's laboratories and science facilities.
Thursday 1 june 2023
- David Joseph Bohm FRS (1917-1992) was a Professor of Theoretical Physics at Birkbeck from 1961 to 1987. He has been described as one of the most significant theoretical physicists of the twentieth century and Infinite Potential, directed by Paul Howard, draws a compelling portrait of the man Einstein described as his 'spiritual son'.
Friday 2 June 2023
- Focus on Earth Sciences and Planetary Science: This event involved a taster lecture on how astrobiology can inform our understanding of life on Earth, the philosophy of the search for life elsewhere in the Solar System and beyond, and the future of humanity as a multi-planet species. This was followed by a Q&A session.
Monday 5 June
- Focus on Psychological Sciences: The event started with a series of short talks by researchers, with a focus on the topic of educational neuroscience. These talks were followed by a Q&A and panel discussion on the progress made in this field and how research in cognitive neuroscience, psychology and genetics can help promote better learning. Attendees then had a chance to explore the wider research carried out at Birkbeck by talking to PhD students during a poster session.
Tuesday 6 June Rosalind Franklin lecture 2023
Professor Francesca Happé, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience, King's College, London: Mental Health on the Autism Spectrum. Professor Happé explored some possible reasons why people with autism experience higher rates of mental health difficulties (including anxiety and depression) than their peers, and how these can be addressed to improve quality of life for everyone on the autism spectrum.