From pioneering research into superbugs and food for extra-terrestrial colonies, to uncovering a rare species of giant rat in the Solomon Islands, this year’s University of Melbourne Science Festival showcases the latest discoveries and innovations shaping the world around us.
Now in its 10th year, the week-long festival features a series of free events and activities including expert-led masterclasses, a space simulation, physics show and hands-on expo.
This year’s theme “Discover, survive and thrive” underscores how science plays a crucial role in the preservation of different species in an ever-changing world.
Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor Moira O’Bryan, said scientific advancements have real-world impacts, enabling researchers to address global challenges such as environmental threats and disease.
“This ever-evolving industry is instrumental in generating solutions for everyday life and unpacking the mysteries of the universe,’’ said Professor O’Bryan. “Science Festival allows the public to gain an insight into the valuable work our researchers do each and every day while inspiring the next generation of innovative minds.”
Featured events include:
- Public lecture: Model citizens: How mathematicisans are helping the planet: Monday 12 August, 6-7:30pm. This free public lecture will explore how mathematical eco-warriors are using the power of numbers and new models to protect life on Earth. Recommended for ages 16+
- Mid-afternoon Masterclass: The silent rise of the Tuberculosis superbug: Monday 12 August, 2 -2:45pm. Discover how TB bacteria control their metabolism to survive inside humans and how scientists are combatting this deadly disease.
- Mid-afternoon Masterclass: How sneezing chickens impact the egg industry: Tuesday 13 August, 2-2:45pm. Learn how we are improving diagnostic methods to help keep Australian chickens healthy and support farmers.
- Mid-afternoon Masterclass: How to catch a giant coconut-cracking rat: Wednesday 14 August, 2 -2:45pm. Hear how mammalogist Dr Tyrone Lavery worked with local people to document a new species of giant rat in the Solomon Islands.
- Collaborate to Innovate Expo: Thursday 15 August, 11am-4pm.Visit this free, one-day Expo for hands-on experience of the latest STEM research from across the University of Melbourne. Recommended for ages 10+
- Physics Phantasy: Thursday 15 August, 12-1:30pm. This high-energy, interactive show will blow your mind with fun-damental physics as we demonstrate how the laws of the Universe can lead to bangs, sparks and other surprising results. From kinematics to electromagnetics and optics, it’s all fantastic!
- Mid-afternoon Masterclass: Hunting weather history to prepare for the future: Thursday 15 August, 2 -2:45pm. In this masterclass we will explore the good, bad and ugly of Australia’s weather history, and explain how dusty old diaries can help us prepare for a hotter and more extreme future.
- Mid-afternoon Masterclass: The science of beer and winemaking in a changing climate: Friday 16 August, 2 -2:45pm Explore how new scientific knowledge is improving process efficiency and product quality in modern brewing and winemaking, and discover how Australian winemakers are adapting to a changing climate.
Science Festival runs from 12-16 August, you can find more information on the program schedule here.
