Science in the spotlight at Birkbeck
A series of free public events focussed on science are taking place to highlight what the College has to offer.
Birkbeck, University of London is hosting its annual Science Week from 23 – 26 March, with cinematic perception, the science of baby laughter and battling pathogens just some of the subjects to be placed under the microscope.
The week will include talks by leading academics, a special film screening and exclusive lab tours taking place for anyone with an interest in science. It aims to bring some of the ground-breaking research being carried out across Birkbeck's School of Science to a wider public audience.
The events taking place show the wide variety of areas in our lives which science is impacting on, and will help demystify what scientists do behind laboratory doors. Launching the week will be a screening of Darren Aronofsky’s The Fountain, followed by a Q&A session. The event will also include a live experiment examining the cognitive processes involved in watching a film, from the flickering of lights to the sound effects.
Among the other highlights will be the Women in Science evening. The talks – on 24 March - will be given by two leading Birkbeck scientists: Professor Helen Saibil will discuss how protein machines play their part in the arms race between humans and pathogens, while Professor Karen Hudson-Edwards will look at how we manage one of our most precious natural resources, water.
Professor Martin Eimer’s talk on March 25 examines the cognitive and brain mechanisms behind facial recognition and why some people find face recognition difficult. Dr Alan Lowe’s talk looks at the inner workings of the living cell using state-of-the-art dynamic microscopy.
Alongside the talks, there will also be two lab tours: an electron microscopy demonstration will allow participants to view the internal structure of cells, while a MRI demonstration will visualize neural activity relating to different perceptual and motor processes.
The week finishes with talks from researchers in the Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development (CBCD). Dr Esha Massand shares some fascinating studies into babies with Down syndrome that reveal both risk and protective factors for dementia. Katarina Begus looks at why it’s important to nurture the development of a curious mind. Finally, Dr Caspar Addyman will share his insights into the serious (and delightful) science of baby laughter and what it can reveal about babies’ early development.
Whether you’ve a background in science, are considering applying for one of Birkbeck's science courses, or you’re simply intrigued by the subject, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
For full details visit Science Week.