Oxfordshire Science Festival 2015 booklet

WOW!HOW? IS THERE A RIGHT

DIET FOR YOU?

EAST OXFORD SCIENCE BUSKING

THE BLOWFISH!

BROOKES

SCIENCE BAZAAR

ATOM SCIENCE FAIR

OXFORDSHIRE

SCIENCE

FESTIVAL

2015 THE UGLY ANIMAL

ROADSHOW TALKING SCIENCE: THE LIGHT FANTASTIC

REFLECTIONS AND

REVOLUTIONS

LUNCHTIME LIGHT BITES

SCIENCE

IN YOUR WORLD

www.oxscifest.org

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QUESTIONTODAY; DISCOVERTOMORROW

FIZZ, POP, BANG! I meet people ev er y day who tell me science isn’t fun. It’s boring an d too hard. Ever y day that is, except for the two weeks in March when Ox fordshire Science Festival changes all that.

Then people tell a look of excited me, with wonder, that scie nce is awesome.

2015 is your chan OSF ce to get in and ha ve a go at scienc an experiment, ge e. Do t those burning qu estions of f your ch find out somethin est, g new and discove r just how much plays a role in yo science ur ever y day. Ther e’s plenty for you choose from in th to is brochure and ev en more on our w Go on, take a look ebsite. !

Renée Watson Ox fordshire Scie nce Festival CEO The Oxfordshire Science Festival is managed by Wats.On Consultancy. www.watsonconsultancy.net.

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL WHAT IS IT? The Oxfordshire Science Festival (OSF) is a countywide celebration of science that takes place each March. OSF is a rapidly growing festival – in 2014 more than 30,000 people attended OSF events and activities, making it one of the highest attended science festivals in the UK.

WHO IS IT FOR? Everyone! With a huge selection of events, activities, workshops and exhibitions, the OSF programme offers something for everyone: children, adults, families, school groups, young people and professional scientists.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE: OXSCIFEST.ORG

WHY DOES IT HAPPEN? We want to demonstrate how science is part of, and impacts on, our everyday lives. And we want to celebrate Oxfordshire as a world-class location for science and technology, with groundbreaking and cutting-edge research and innovation happening right here on our doorsteps.

HOW DOES IT WORK? OSF is a collaborative festival. We work with a wide range of partners, from universities to charities, industry to research institutions and museums to schools, who all get involved by organising events, running activities and providing venues, volunteers and sponsorship that all help to make OSF happen.

Book early to avoid disappointment! Book tickets at www.oxscifest.org

MORE DETAILS & TICKET BOOKING AT

WELCOME TO OSF 2015

OXSCIFEST.ORG

FESTIVAL AT A GLANCE THINKING BIG

HANDS-ON DROP IN AND HAVE A GO AT THESE INTERACTIVE EVENTS FOR EVERYONE

EVENTS FOR ADULTS AND OLDER CHILDREN

Science in your world page 9

Is there a right diet for you? page 21

East Oxford science busking page 6 Wow!How? page 13

Reflections and revolutions: a science film night page 8

Brookes science bazaar page 16

Awake page 7

ATOM Science Fair page 22

The serial killer formula page 10

Science Oxford eclipse live page 15

Age of champions: defeating dementia page 17

Solar eclipse in Abingdon page 21

Dinosaur diversity in the British Isles page 13

Inside the brain page 15

Printing hearts; saving lives page 20

Hooked on invention page 13

Cosmic quest: from Babylon to the big bang page 19

The Cherwell School science fair page 14

Seeing the light page 18

Changing minds page 7

Lunchtime light bites page 20 FameLab UK 2015: Oxford final page 4 The Oxford Colloquium page 5

IT’S SHOWTIME!

Science and dance – finding commonalities page 7 The science of art page 18

FAMILY-FRIENDLY SCIENCE SPECTACULARS! The ugly animal roadshow page 11

Changing bones: how our skeleton adapts through life page 14

Grass page 6

Music and the brain page 14

Talking science: the light fantastic page 15

Neuroscience in Oxford: four centuries of discovery page 14

The Blowfish page 22

WORKSHOP IT

EXHIBITIONS

TRY IT, MAKE IT, DO IT!

SAVOUR AND ENJOY

Storytelling science evening page 10

The science of brewing page 11

A question of taste: DNA workshop page 17

Making a star on Earth page 12

Smells like heaven page 15

Oxford city will become a hive of intrigue and discovery with OX-ON! – a four day science spectacular that kicks off OSF 2015. Come and indulge your curiosity at our events for the very young to the young at heart. Page 4

https://twitter.com/oxscifest

ATOM is a celebration of science and technology in Abingdon-on-Thames, and the official closing event of the Oxfordshire Science Festival. Page 18

https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshiresciencefestival

#OSF15

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EVENTS IN OXFORD

FRIDAY 6 MARCH TO MONDAY 9 MARCH E OF INTRIGUE AND DISCOVERY OXFORD CITY WILL BECOME A HIV OFF ENCE SPECTACULAR THAT KICKS WITH OX-ON! – A FOUR DAY SCI NTS EVE OUR AT ITY YOUR CURIOS OSF 2015. COME AND INDULGE THE YOUNG AT HEART. TO NG YOU Y VER FOR THE GRASS SCIENCE EAST OXFORD IN YOUR WORLD SCIENCE BUSKING REFLECTIONS AND AWAKE THE OXFORD COLLOQUIUM REVOLUTIONS

VACCINES AND

INFECTIOUS DISEASE

CHANGING MINDS DANCE & ACADEMIA FAMELAB UK 2015: OXFORD FINAL

VACCINES AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE

SCHOOLS FREE BOOK

FAMELAB UK 2015: OXFORD FINAL SCIENCE OXFORD LIVE

JENNER INSTITUTE, BSGCT & OSF

Friday 6 March, 7–10pm

Friday 6 March, 9.30am–3.30pm

GLEE CLUB, 3-5 HYTHE BRIDGE ST, OXFORD, OX1 2EW

OXFORD UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, PARKS RD, OXFORD, OX1 3PW

This event will provide an opportunity to discuss and debate new developments in vaccines for major infectious diseases and to learn about how the immune system responds to infection. This will be a chance to engage with scientists, clinicians and research students to learn about the impact this research has on society and to hear about different career paths in science. An interactive day for anyone who wants to find out about the immune system, vaccines and infectious diseases. This FREE event is suitable for GCSE and A-Level students and anyone with an interest in learning more about immunity and disease prevention.

Book early to avoid disappointment! Book tickets at www.oxscifest.org

OPEN TO ALL • FREE • BOOK

FameLab UK is back! Move over Brian Cox and Alice Roberts: step aside Dara O’Briain and Richard Dawkins. Book your FREE tickets to see the talented new science performers of Oxford as they compete for a place in the national finals of the UK’s most popular science communication competition.

MORE DETAILS & TICKET BOOKING AT

OXSCIFEST.ORG

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Bringing the Sun to Earth for Cleaner Energy At Culham Centre for Fusion Energy (CCFE), scientists and engineers are researching a major new energy source – nuclear fusion.

Fusion is the process which powers the Sun. It occurs in its core when light atomic nuclei are forced together and results in the release in a large amount of energy.

The European JET experiment, hosted at Culham by CCFE on behalf of EUROFUSION, is a key part of the worldwide fusion research programme to generate electricity from fusion power.

In addition, CCFE runs the UK’s own fusion experiment – MAST – that studies how fusion might be achieved on a more compact scale.

www.ccfe.ac.uk

Twitter @fusionenergy Facebook Culham Centre for Fusion Energy YouTube Culhamfusionenergy

THE OXFORD COLLOQUIUM OXFORD GEOLOGY GROUP

Saturday 7 March, 10am–4.30pm OXFORD UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, PARKS ROAD, OXFORD, OX1 3PW OPEN TO ALL • £20 • BOOK

© VIVACIOUS MEL PHOTOGRAPHY

A fabulous one-day event celebrating the geosciences. The Colloquium welcomes six eminent speakers from distinguished academic and research institutions across the UK. This year’s speakers – including scientist and television presenter, Prof Richard Fortey – will deliver fascinating lectures covering a range of subjects from polar climates to biogeochemistry.

WWW. OGG. UK.COM/#!THEOXFORDCOLLOQUIUM/ C8S8

https://twitter.com/oxscifest

https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshiresciencefestival

#OSF15

QUESTIONTODAY; DISCOVERTOMORROW EAST OXFORD SCIENCE BUSKING

OPEN TO ALL FREE DROP-IN

OSF

Sunday 8 March, 10am–4pm CHECK THE OSF WEBSITE FOR LOCATIONS

Keep an eye out for pop-up science busking in East Oxford. Try out our interactive, handson activities and experiments, and meet our science buskers and performers. Locations to be revealed on the OSF website.

© VIVACIOUS MEL PHOTOGRAPHY

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GRASS DANCIN’ OXFORD

Sunday 8 March, 10am & 12pm PEGASUS THEATRE, MAGDALEN RD, OXFORD, OX4 1RE

Introducing a simple, powerful and affordable approach to IT services We believe SME’s need to differentiate themselves from the competition and reduce time-to-market of unique services. We help our clients by offloading “commodity” IT services and free staff to focus on core competencies; improve reliability and service of existing mission-critical applications; gain immediate, easy access to standard or emerging business functionality; and gain access to revenue-generating or vertical business functionality.

Based in Wantage, Oxfordshire, we work with our clients across four key area: 1. Business Consultancy 2. Technical Project Management 3. Service Delivery 4. Systems and Solutions For more information, call us www.huduma.co.uk info@huduma.co.uk T: +44 (0)1235 766837 M: +44 (0)7710 088 772 QR Code to website

Science is a way of thinking much more than it is a body of knowledge. —Carl Sagan

FAMILIES (AGE 3–7) • £5 PER TICKET, £7 COMBINED TICKET WITH BABY BOOGIE • BOOK

Join award-winning Second Hand Dance for a light-hearted and inquisitive interactive dance event for all ages from tiny tots to mums and grandparents. Using humour, insect facts and gentle audience interaction, Grass explores the world beneath our feet. This event aims to inspire audiences to look closely at the world around them, get mucky and play!

MORE DETAILS & TICKET BOOKING AT

OXSCIFEST.ORG

CHANGING MINDS: STROKE AND DEMENTIA DIAGNOSIS AND REHABILITATION THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

Sunday 8 March, 10am–4pm COGNITIVE NEUROPSYCHOLOGY CENTRE, 9 SOUTH PARKS RD, UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD, OX1 3UD OPEN TO ALL • FREE • DROP-IN

Siemens Magnet Technology

Find out about aiding the recovery of stroke survivors, diagnostic screens for dementia and learn how to keep mentally fit every day!

A Great Place to Work www.siemens.co.uk/magnet-technology

Based in west Oxfordshire, Siemens Magnet Technology is a world leader in the design and manufacture of superconducting magnets for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) body scanners.

DANCE & ACADEMIA: MOVING THE BOUNDARIES, PRESENTS SCIENCE AND DANCE – FINDING COMMONALITIES DANCIN’ OXFORD

Check out our job opportunities at: http://www.siemens.co.uk/careers Answers for life.

AWAKE OSF

Monday 9 March, 7–9.30pm

ADULTS (AGE 14+) FREE BOOK

HOLYWELL MUSIC ROOM, HOLYWELL STREET, OXFORD, OX1 3SD

You are aware. But you are meant to be unconscious. “Awake” explores the findings of the largest ever study of awareness during anaesthesia through music, poetry and discussion in an evening to challenge your very concept of consciousness. Featuring a panel of experts from medicine and research as well as internationally renowned poet Ruth Padel and awardwinning composer Michael Zev Gordon, who have worked together to create the centre-piece for the evening – a new musical work based on actual patient experiences of awareness under anaesthesia.

https://twitter.com/oxscifest

Sunday 8 March Conference: 10.30am–4.30pm; Panel discussion: 5–6pm BOILER ROOM, THE JAM FACTORY, 27 PARK END ST, OXFORD, OX1 1HU OPEN TO ALL • £18 / £15 CONC FOR FULL DAY INCLUDING LUNCH, £5 FOR PANEL DISCUSSION ONLY • BOOK

How can dancers and scientists collaborate, and why would they?

Can dance inspire new scientific research, and can science give meaning to new choreography?

https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshiresciencefestival

#OSF15

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QUESTIONTODAY; DISCOVERTOMORROW

shorts.com

Love a good story?

The best new voices in fiction.

Screened and edited short stories of all genres direct to your reading device or email address. editor@pennyshorts.com

REFLECTIONS AND REVOLUTIONS: A SCIENCE FILM NIGHT NUFFIELD DEPARTMENT OF MEDICINE & DIAMOND LIGHT SOURCE

Sunday 8 March, 5pm PHOENIX PICTURE HOUSE, 57 WALTON ST, OXFORD, OX2 6AE

Come join the Nuffield Department of Medicine and Diamond Light Source for a film festival celebrating the history and development of X-ray crystallography and structural biology. Oxfordshire researchers have played key roles in the development of these critical fields of research, which they continue to lead today. The films showcase the work of scientists in and around Oxford, and highlight the University and the Diamond Light Source synchrotron facility in Harwell. Between the films, there will be opportunities to discuss the work with the featured scientists.

We will be showing: • Revolutionary Biology Parts 1–4 • The Braggs’ Legacy

OPEN TO ALL FREE BOOK

Book early to avoid disappointment! Book tickets at www.oxscifest.org

© WONDERISLAND/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

8

MORE DETAILS & TICKET BOOKING AT

OXSCIFEST.ORG

Bonn Square, Central Oxford Saturday 7 March 10am–4pm

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Come and be amazed by the science in our everyday life at our free and interactive science fair! There’s something for everyone, with plenty of hands-on activities to try out and science experiments to get involved in.

Science in Your World © VIVACIOUS MEL PHOTOGRAPHY

AN EXPLOSION OF SCIENCE TO LAUNCH THE 2015 OXFORDSHIRE SCIENCE FESTIVAL

www.oxscifest.org PRINCIPAL PARTNERS

MAJOR SUPPORTERS

SUPPORTERS AND FRIENDS

MEDIA PARTNER

OSF is proudly part of British Science Week

https://twitter.com/oxscifest

https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshiresciencefestival

#OSF15

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EVENTS ACROSS OXFORDSHIRE

EVENTS ACROSS

OXFORDSHIRE

WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH TO MONDAY 30 MARCH TO DISCOVER THE SCIENCE IN OXFORDSHIRE IS A GREAT PLACE G WITH PARTNERS ACROSS THE YOUR WORLD. BY COLLABORATIN A FANTASTIC PROGRAMME OF COUNTY WE’VE PUT TOGETHER HOUT MARCH – SO COME ALONG EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES THROUG ENJOY! AND EXPERIMENT, EXPLORE AND MAKING A STAR INSIDE THE BRAIN

NEUROSCIENCE IN OXFORD

ON EARTH HOOKED ON INVENTION

SCIENCE OXFORD

BROOKES THE UGLY ANIMAL

SCIENCE ROADSHOW WOW!HOW? BAZAAR THE SCIENCE OF BREWING STORYTELLING SCIENCE CHANGING BONES TALKING SCIENCE: DINOSAUR MUSIC AND ECLIPSE LIVE

THE SERIAL KILLER

FORMULA DIVERSITY BRIGHT CLUB OXFORD

THE BRAIN

THE LIGHT FANTASTIC

DNA WORKSHOP PHYSICIST…OR SPY? SMELLS LIKE HEAVEN

THE SERIAL KILLER FORMULA

DIDCOT

SCIENCE OXFORD LIVE

PHYSICIST…OR SPY? A TALK

BY PROF FRANK CLOSE ABINGDON SCHOOL

Wednesday 4 March, 7.30–9pm CORNERSTONE ARTS CENTRE, 25 STATION RD, DIDCOT, OX11 7NE

A dreadful crime has been committed; so shocking we dare not speak its name. You are all suspects, but who dunnit? Join Science Oxford Live for an interactive evening of interrogation and intrigue as we explore how serial killers can be tracked and caught using a formula that would make even Sherlock Holmes look elementary. “The Serial Killer Formula” has been adapted by biologist Steve Le Comber to track down everything from the migration of mosquitos to the foraging of bats. As with many serial killers, both species choose victims near their homes. So will you be caught with the candlestick in the cellar? You can run but you can’t hide...

Wednesday 4 March, 7pm AMEY THEATRE, ABINGDON SCHOOL, ABINGDON, OXFORDSHIRE OX14 1DE ADULTS • FREE • DROP-IN

Prof Frank Close will talk about his search for the truth about atomic scientist Bruno Pontecorvo.

STORYTELLING SCIENCE EVENING CATARINA AMORIM

Saturday 7 March, 6–7.30pm ALBION BOOKSHOP, 34 WALTON ST, OXFORD, OX2 6AA ADULTS (AGE 14+) £8 / £5 CONCESSIONS (OAP / STUDENT / UNDER 18’S) BOOK

People love to wonder, and that is the seed of science. —adapted from Ralph Waldo Emerson

ADULTS (AGE 14+) • £2 • BOOK

A magic evening of science and music at the Albion Bookshop (for full details see www.oxscifest.org).

MORE DETAILS & TICKET BOOKING AT

OSF 2015

OXSCIFEST.ORG

THE UGLY ANIMAL ROADSHOW COKETHORPE SCHOOL

Thursday 5 March, 6–7pm

Y WITNE

OPEN TO ALL (AGE 5+) FREE BOOK

COKETHORPE SCHOOL, WITNEY, OX29 7PU

Join us for a unique evening looking at Mother Nature’s more aesthetically challenged creatures.

Simon Watt, President For Life of the Ugly Animal Preservation Society, delivers a comedic presentation with a conservation twist as you’ve never seen before. The show features videos, demonstrations and lots of audience participation that guarantees you will leave with a new perspective on the ugliness of Mother Nature! The panda gets too much attention!

Simon Watt is a biologist, writer, science communicator and TV presenter.

He is perhaps best known as a presenter on the BAFTA-winning documentary series ‘Inside Nature’s Giants’ and the Channel 4 special ‘The Elephant: Life After Death’.

Cokethorpe School is delighted to welcome Simon, who will be running workshops throughout the day with our pupils. This is a great example of how science at Cokethorpe is brought to life beyond the classroom. The day will culminate with The Ugly Animal Roadshow, which is also open to the public.

THE SCIENCE OF BREWING

WITNEY

WITNEY MUSEUM & HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Saturday 7 March to Monday 23 March, Tues to Sat 10am–4pm, Sun 2–4pm WITNEY MUSEUM & HISTORICAL SOCIETY, GLOUCESTER COURT MEWS, WITNEY, OX28 6JA OPEN TO ALL • FREE • DROP-IN

In the context of early industrial development, brewing was a technically-advanced industry, requiring significant capital investment and at least some knowledge of chemistry.

Breweries such as Clinch’s Eagle Brewery in Witney were among the first industrial concerns to employ steam power and major supporters of the Witney Railway Company. https://twitter.com/oxscifest

https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshiresciencefestival

#OSF15

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QUESTIONTODAY; DISCOVERTOMORROW Sarah's Adventures in Science

Science Shows & Workshops

Developed and delivered by Award Winning Children's Science Presenter

Dr Sarah Bearchell

Nursery - EYFS - KS1 - KS2 - KS3

Innovative activities for children with Special Educational Needs Oxfordshire and surrounding areas 07905 271275 - sarah@bearchell.co.uk - www.bearchell.co.uk MAKING A STAR ON EARTH CULHAM CENTRE FOR FUSION ENERGY

Tuesday 10 March–Sunday 26 April

FAMILIES

BRIGHT CLUB OXFORD

FREE

BRIGHT CLUB OXFORD

DROP-IN

Wednesday 11 March, 8pm JERICHO TAVERN, WALTON STREET, OXFORD, OX2 6AE

CORNERSTONE ARTS CENTRE, 25 STATION ROAD, DIDCOT, OX11 7NE

Culham Centre for Fusion Energy is leading the quest to develop fusion – the process that powers the Sun – for electricity on Earth. Our exhibition will feature the work of artists and photographers who have visited Culham, as well as other images that together show the progress of worldwide research towards this inspiring goal.

DIDCOT

Book early to avoid disappointment! Book tickets at www.oxscifest.org

ADULTS (AGE 18+) • £5.50 • BOOK

A selection of Oxford’s finest (and funniest) researchers are leaving their labs, libraries and lecture theatres to take to the stage and show us that academic research can be funnier than you might think. In association with the Jericho Tavern.

MORE DETAILS & TICKET BOOKING AT

OSF 2015

OXSCIFEST.ORG

DINOSAUR DIVERSITY IN THE BRITISH ISLES

OPEN TO ALL

HOOKED ON INVENTION

FREE

MUSEUM OF THE HISTORY OF SCIENCE

BOOK

Saturday 14 March, 10am–4pm

OXFORD UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Wednesday 11 March, 6.30–7.30pm OXFORD UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, PARKS RD, OXFORD, OX1 3PW

OPEN TO ALL • FREE • DROP-IN

A day of talks, demonstrations and hands-on activities celebrating the 350th anniversary of the remarkable Robert Hooke.

Discover curious facts and ingenious objects, from 17thcentury experiments with microscopes and the air-pump to present day challenges of science and engineering.

Suitable for all the family.

© JAMES MCKAY

‘Dinosaur’ and ‘Britain’ are two words that are rarely used together, yet dinosaurs are a British invention! If you were asked to name a dinosaur, the chances are you would give a foreign example, such as Tyrannosaurus rex, despite the term ‘dinosaur’ having been conceived by a British palaeontologist for fossils found in England. Finds include examples of theropods, sauropods, ornithopods and thyreophorans (stegosaurs and ankylosaurs). In fact, the British Isles have their own tyrannosaurs!

Dean Lomax, author of Dinosaurs of the British Isles, gives an overview of the extraordinary dinosaur remains found across Britain, including Oxfordshire dinosaurs, all of which can be seen in the Museum of Natural History displays. The talk will be followed by a book signing, and a chance to examine real dinosaur specimens from the Museum collections.

MUSEUM OF THE HISTORY OF SCIENCE, BROAD STREET, OXFORD, OX1 3AZ

OPEN TO ALL FREE DROP-IN

MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY AND PITT RIVERS MUSEUM

Saturday 14 March, 10am–4pm MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY AND PITT RIVERS MUSEUM, PARKS RD, OXFORD, OX1 3PW

Make, test, explore and explode with excitement at our annual bonanza of experiments and handson fun. Over 30 different activities to choose from! https://twitter.com/oxscifest

https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshiresciencefestival

#OSF15

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QUESTIONTODAY; DISCOVERTOMORROW

Come and see science “up close” on the Harwell campus The UK’s largest science campus is opening its doors in July Schools open day: Wednesday 8th July Public open day: Saturday 11th July To register your interest, visit www.stfc.ac.uk/opendays

A6 Advert.indd 1

DOROTHY HODGKIN MEMORIAL LECTURE OXFORD AWISE (ASSOCIATION FOR WOMEN IN SCIENCE & ENGINEERING)

Thursday 12 March, 5–6pm OXFORD UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, PARKS ROAD, OXFORD, OX1 3PW ADULTS (AGE 14+) • FREE • NO BOOKING

Oxford AWiSE (Association for Women in Science & Engineering), in collaboration with Somerville College and Oxford University Museum of Natural History, celebrate the achievements of Dorothy Hodgkin (1910–1994) who solved the structures of penicillin, vitamin B12 and insulin and was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1964.

CHANGING BONES: HOW OUR SKELETON ADAPTS THROUGH LIFE NDORMS, UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

Monday 16 March, 7–8pm OXFORD UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, PARKS ROAD, OXFORD, OX1 3PW ADULTS (AGE 16+) • FREE • BOOK

Dr James Edwards explores the fascinating science of the skeleton to find out how diet, exercise and ageing affect our bones.

THE CHERWELL SCHOOL SCIENCE FAIR

15/01/2015 18:42

MUSIC AND THE BRAIN UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

Wednesday 18 March, 6–8.15pm HOLYWELL MUSIC ROOM, HOLYWELL STREET, OXFORD, OX1 3SD ADULTS (AGE 15+) • FREE • BOOK

Ever wondered what’s happening in your brain when you listen to your favourite music?

NEUROSCIENCE IN OXFORD: FOUR CENTURIES OF DISCOVERY UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

THE CHERWELL SCHOOL

Thursday 19 March, 7–8pm

Tuesday 17 March, 2–4pm

MUSEUM OF THE HISTORY OF SCIENCE, BROAD STREET, OXFORD, OX1 3AZ

THE CHERWELL SCHOOL, MARSTON FERRY ROAD, OXFORD, OX2 7EE OPEN TO ALL • FREE • DROP-IN

Every year The Cherwell School holds a science fair showcasing the work of our students.

Book early to avoid disappointment! Book tickets at www.oxscifest.org

ADULTS • FREE • NO BOOKING

Professor Molnar explores the colourful history of neuroscience research in Oxford.

MORE DETAILS & TICKET BOOKING AT

OSF 2015

CCC_advert_OSF copy.pdf OXSCIFEST.ORG

INSIDE THE BRAIN DON’T T! MISS OU

SCIENCE OXFORD ECLIPSE LIVE SCIENCE OXFORD LIVE

Friday 20 March, 9am OXFORD CITY CENTRE (CHECK WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS) OPEN TO ALL • FREE • DROP-IN

Join Science Oxford Live and local astronomers to experience the solar eclipse coming our way on 20th March.

Talk planets, moons and darkness with the experts and make your own solar shades.

It’s the last total solar eclipse visible in Europe until August 2026 so don’t miss out!

UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

Friday 20 to Sunday 22 March: Fri 12–5pm, Sat 10am–5pm, Sun 2–5pm MUSEUM OF THE HISTORY OF SCIENCE, BROAD STREET, OXFORD, OX1 3AZ FAMILIES (AGE 6+) • FREE • DROP-INC

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SMELLS LIKE HEAVEN THE ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM

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Saturday 21 March, 1–4pm THE ASHMOLEAN MUSEUM, BEAUMONT STREET, OXFORD, OX1 2PH FAMILIES • FREE • DROP-IN

Make your own incense burner out of clay.

TALKING SCIENCE: THE LIGHT FANTAS TIC

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Friday 20 March, 1.3

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https://twitter.com/oxscifest

NCIL / DIA MON D LIGH

0pm and 7pm

ON LABORATORY, HA

OPEN TO ALL FREE BOOK

T SOU RCE

RW ELL OXF ORD, DIDCOT , OX11 0QX

Light helps us to make sen se of the world; we can use it to look at the smallest creatures or investigate the furthest galaxies. Light itself is made up of more than jus t the colours of the rainbow; it is the heat tha t comes off a roaring fire, or the X-ray that rev eals a broken bone.

All of these types of ligh t tell us more about how the Universe works . For example, how heat from distant galax ies shows us where new stars are born, and how X-rays can probe into the very heart of ma terials.

https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshiresciencefestival

#OSF15

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QUESTIONTODAY; DISCOVERTOMORROW BROOKES SCIENCE BAZAAR OXFORD BROOKES UNIVERSITY

Saturday 21 March, 11am–4pm

HEADING TON 2015 WILL BE EVEN BIGGER AND BETTER!

FAMILIES FREE DROP-IN

OXFORD BROOKES UNIVERSITY, HEADINGTON CAMPUS, GIPSY LANE, OXFORD, OX3 0BP

Discover how your body works, explore the miniature world of cells, learn about animals and race our rocket cars... just some of the exciting activities that will be at the Science Bazaar.

From chromosomes, genes and cells, movement, bones and health, to brains, your mind and what makes you “you”: the Science Bazaar returns with a mix of old favourites and new activities.

Meet our researchers, find out about their work and have a go at doing real science yourself.

Prepare yourself to be surprised and amazed at our free science day for the whole family.

Oxford Biomedical Research Centre

Enabling translational research through partnership

When gravity calls, something falls. —J.L.W. Brooks

National Institute for Health Research

MORE DETAILS & TICKET BOOKING AT

OSF 2015 A QUESTION OF TASTE: DNA WORKSHOP OXFORD UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Saturday 21 March, 10am–3pm OXFORD UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, PARKS RD, OXFORD, OX1 3PW ADULTS • £65 • BOOK

Investigate human evolution and genetic variation using your own DNA and research-quality equipment. Do you hate Brussels sprouts? Your answer might be linked to your genes. Analyse the genetic basis for this inherited trait with up-to-date molecular biology techniques. Booking & info: Education@oum.ox.ac.uk

https://twitter.com/oxscifest

OXSCIFEST.ORG

AGE OF CHAMPIONS: DEFEATING DEMENTIA

OPEN TO ALL FREE BOOK

SCIENCE OXFORD LIVE

Monday 30 March, 7–8.30pm THE THEATRE, 2 SPRING STREET, CHIPPING NORTON, OX7 5NL

CHIPPING NORTON

Could a healthy and active lifestyle as we grow older really help to prevent dementia, which now affects over 800,000 people in the UK? Age of Champions is an inspirational award-winning US documentary following five competitors who sprint, leap, and swim for gold at the National Senior Olympics. Meet a 100-year-old tennis champion, 86-yearold pole vaulter and basketball-playing grandmothers as they triumph over the limitations of age.

The documentary is followed by a talk from dementia expert Dr Claire Sexton on the science behind active ageing.

https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshiresciencefestival

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EVENTS IN ABINGDON

FRIDAY 13 MARCH TO SATURDAY 21 MARCH ON-ON-THAMES, NCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN ABINGD ATOM IS A CELEBRATION OF SCIE FESTIVAL. COME NT OF THE OXFORDSHIRE SCIENCE AND THE OFFICIAL CLOSING EVE INTRIGUE! OF SCIENCE, ENTERTAINMENT AND ALONG FOR AN EXTRAVAGANZA SEE INSIDE YOUR HEAD

IS THERE A RIGHT

ATOM SCIENCE FAIR DIET FOR YOU? THE SCIENCE OF ART PRINTING HEARTS; LUNCHTIME THE BLOWFISH!

SAVING LIVES LIGHT

BITES COSMIC QUEST

SOLAR ECLIPSE IN ABINGDON ATOM SCHOOLS SCIENCE FAIR

SEEING THE LIGHT

ADULTS (AGE 13+)

ATOM

£7.50

Friday 13 March, 7pm

THE SCIENCE OF ART ABINGDON COUNTY HALL MUSEUM

Tuesday 17 March, 7–8.30pm

BOOK

ROYSSE ROOM, ABINGDON GUILDHALL, ABBEY CLOSE, ABINGDON, OX14 3JD

JOHN MASON SCHOOL, WOOTTON ROAD, ABINGDON, OX14 1JB

Join astronomer, Dr John Mason, and astrophysicist and The Sky at Night presenter, Prof Chris Lintott, as they explore some of the more unusual astronomical phenomena that we observe here on Earth.

They’ll be taking a closer look at the northern lights, and explaining everything we need to know about solar eclipses in preparation for the partial eclipse on 20th March. Bring your own cosmic questions and join in the discussion, chaired by Prof Frank Close.

Book tickets at www.oxscifest.org. Don’t delay!

ADULTS • FREE • BOOK

Painting Conservator Ruth Bubb gives her expert insight into conservation techniques of artwork, with a particular focus on the restoration of the Abingdon Monks’ Map.

© SHARPS/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

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MORE DETAILS & TICKET BOOKING AT

OXSCIFEST.ORG

COSMIC QUEST: FROM BABYLON TO THE BIG BANG

ADULTS (AGE 13+) £7.50 BOOK

ATOM SCHOOLS SCIENCE FAIR ATOM

ATOM

Thursday 19 March, 10am–2.15pm

Wednesday 18 March, 7pm

ABBEY HALL, ABINGDON GUILDHALL, ABBEY CLOSE, ABINGDON, OX14 3HL

ABBEY HALL, ABINGDON GUILDHALL, ABBEY CLOSE, ABINGDON, OX14 3HL

Join us on a rollercoaster ride through time and space as we cover 40,000 years of astronomy – in just one evening! Based on the BBC Radio 4 series, Prof Heather Couper and Prof Nigel Henbest present Cosmic Quest, which follows humankind’s intrepid journey to understand the Universe – from the Ancient Greeks’ first astronomical computer, to the latest telescopes searching for extraterrestrial intelligence. Join in the discussion afterwards, chaired by Prof Frank Close.

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SCHOOLS • FREE • BOOK

School science fair for primary school pupils. Booking required.

© HENCOUP ENTERPRISES

© VIVACIOUS MEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Tickets are also available to purchase at Mostly Books, Stert Street, Abingdon

ThinkSee3D Ltd ✓ Authorised 3D Systems Inc Technology Provider ✓ Expert advice to get your organisation 3D printing ✓ Regular open days – see a pro 3D printer in action ✓ 3D printing materials, services & upgrades ✓ Full colour and HD 3D printing bureau ✓ 3D scanning from video/photography ✓ Locally based in Oxfordshire 01865 699099 / sales@thinksee3d.com / thinksee3d.com https://twitter.com/ATOMSciFest

https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshiresciencefestival

#ATOM15

QUESTIONTODAY; DISCOVERTOMORROW

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LUNCHTIME LIGHT BITES ATOM

Thursday 19 March–Saturday 21 March, 12–1pm THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, ABINGDON GUILDHALL, ABBEY CLOSE, ABINGDON OX14 3HL

TAKE A LUNCH BREAK WITH A DIFFERENCE, AND COME ALONG TO ATOM’S SERIES OF LUNCHTIME TALKS CELEBRATING THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF LIGHT.

DIAMOND LIGHT SOURCE

SHEDDING LIGHT ON SPACE

FUSION POWER – WITHIN OUR GRASP?

Thursday 19 March

Friday 20 March

Saturday 21 March

Andrew Harrison, chief executive at Diamond Light Source, the UK’s national synchrotron science facility, will talk about the science and history of light, and how Diamond is helping everyone from biologists to archaeologists uncover the atomic secrets of their subjects.

Professor Richard Harrison, Head of Space Physics Division and Chief Scientist at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, discusses the latest research into the Sun, the effect solar eruptions can have on the Earth, and introduces us to the field of space weather.

With fossil fuel reserves diminishing and concerns over climate change increasing, the hunt for alternative energy sources is crucial. Professor Steve Cowley, CEO of Culham Centre for Fusion Energy, introduces us to nuclear fusion, and how the process which powers the Sun could soon become a new source of energy.

ADULTS £5 OR £10 FOR 3 BOOK

PRINTING HEARTS; SAVING LIVES ATOM / OIBC

ADULTS (AGE 13+) £5 BOOK

Thursday 19 March, 6.30pm LARKMEAD SCHOOL, FARINGDON RD, ABINGDON, OX14 1RF

Meet the high-tech heart surgeons, as they take us behind the scenes of the operating theatre and explain what it’s really like to perform life-saving surgery. A local company leading the application of 3D printing technology will demonstrate how 3D printing is revolutionising medicine. In partnership with the Oxford International Biomedical Centre.

Abingdon has a new society that’s linked with the ATOM Festival of Science and Technology. The ATOM Society offers networking opportunities and a programme of talks on scientific topics. We meet at 19:30 in the Kings Head and Bell (King Charles room) Abingdon, on the fourth Thursday of the month.

Guests are welcome.

Web http://AtomSociety.org.uk

© IRAIDKA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Facebook AtomSocietyAbingdon Email Secretary@atomsociety.org.uk

Tickets are also available to purchase at Mostly Books, Stert Street, Abingdon

The universe is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper. —Eden Phillpotts, A Shadow Passes

MORE DETAILS & TICKET BOOKING AT

OXSCIFEST.ORG

PRINTING HEARTS; SAVING LIVES

SOLAR ECLIPSE IN ABINGDON

ATOM / OIBC

ATOM / ABINGDON ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY

Thursday 19 March, 9.30am–12pm

Friday 20 March, 8.30–10.30am

LARKMEAD SCHOOL, FARINGDON RD, ABINGDON, OX14 1RF

ABINGDON TOWN CENTRE

SCHOOLS • FREE • BOOK

Drop in and observe the solar eclipse. Experts from the Abingdon Astronomical Society will be on hand to help us safely view the eclipse, and will take us through what’s going on as it happens.

© IRAIDKA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Local GCSE and A-Level students discover how heart surgery and new technology come together to create artificial hearts. Booking required. In partnership with the Oxford International Biomedical Centre.

OPEN TO ALL • FREE • DROP-IN

Abingdon-on-Thames Festival of Science & Technology

Celebrating the International Year of Light and Light-Based Technologies

www.light2015.org

IS THERE A RIGHT DIET FOR YOU?

ADULTS (AGE 14+) £7.50 BOOK

ATOM / NUFFIELD DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY CARE HEALTH SCIENCES

Friday 20 March, 7pm ST HELEN & ST KATHARINE, FARINGDON RD, ABINGDON, OX14 1BE

Join doctor and TV presenter Chris van Tulleken, with scientists from the recent BBC Two series “What’s The Right Diet For You? A Horizon Special”, as we discuss the latest thinking about weight. We’ll be exploring the different factors that lead to people becoming overweight, discovering how diets work (and why they sometimes don’t!), discussing how we can manage our own weight better, and asking how we can tackle the rising issue of obesity. There will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and join in the discussion.

In partnership with the University of Oxford’s Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences.

Tickets are also available to purchase at Mostly Books, Stert Street, Abingdon

https://twitter.com/ATOMSciFest

https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshiresciencefestival

#ATOM15

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QUESTIONTODAY; DISCOVERTOMORROW

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ATOM SCIENCE FAIR ATOM

Saturday 21 March, 10am–4pm ABINGDON MARKET PLACE, ABINGDON, OX14 3HG

An interactive science fair with something for everyone! Come along and try out some super science experiments and hands-on activities, and take part in a treasure hunt around the town.

ALSO

© VIVACIOUS MEL PHOTOGRAPHY

© BEN LANGDON

FEATURING (AND BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!)...

THE ZOO-BUS!

OPEN TO ALL FREE DROP-IN

THE BLOWFISH! ATOM

Saturday 21 March, 2pm, 4pm and 7pm ABBEY HALL, ABINGDON GUILDHALL, ABBEY CLOSE, ABINGDON OX14 3HL

He’s a TV presenter… he’s a wildlife expert… and he loves to rock out! Families will be blown away by the Heavy Metal Marine Biologist and his Brutal Beasts in this ‘epic’ animal show! So wax down your beard, spike up your mohawk, grab your guitar and hold on tight... it’s Blowfish time!

Tickets are also available to purchase at Mostly Books, Stert Street, Abingdon

ish time!

It’s Blowf FAMILIES (AGE 7+) £7 / £25 FAMILY (UP TO 5 PEOPLE) BOOK

Book tickets at www.oxscifest.org. Don’t delay!

“It is really fun and it made me love science more!” Female 11–18 yrs

The Oxfordshire Science Festival uses innovative, high profile and high impact initiatives to engage people of all ages in the discovery and celebration of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

By offering fascinating, memorable and fun events that are easy to access, we hope to put STEM at the centre of people’s lives. After all, there is science in almost every part of life just waiting to be uncovered and understood!

“I really liked the atmosphere of this event and the fact that the talks were given by researchers about their own work.”

“This was a really excellent event. Interesting, diverting, entertaining, and accessible for all ages, genders and nationalities.”

Male, 50–59 yrs

“Brilliant...extremely good.” Male, under 11 yrs

ALL IMAGES ON THIS PAGE © VIVACIOUS MEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Female, 30–39 yrs

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MAJOR SUPPORTERS

SUPPORTERS AND FRIENDS

MEDIA PARTNER

OSF is proudly part of British Science Week

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