Free talks Hands on activities Events for all ages
14 – 27 March 2011
Science for life For more information tel: 01223 766766 or visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival
Thank you Spotlight Sponsors
Partner Sponsors
Associate Sponsors
Pye Foundation
In Kind Support
Cover image: Flame tests created by Dr Peter Wothers and Mark Hudson, photographed by Nathan Pitt. Part of 'The Wothers guide to the periodic table – group 1, the alkili metals' (page 25)
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Welcome The Science Festival starts here! Welcome to the Cambridge Science Festival 2011 which this year has the theme of ‘Science for Life’. Over 150 mostly free events will celebrate the ways in which science, technology, engineering and mathematics are changing our lives. 2011 is the International Year of Chemistry; join us to uncover some colourful science at the Chemistry Department’s open day on 19th March, with Dr Peter Wothers, who will have some exciting and loud surprises! We're also joined by CBBC's gastronutty food adventurer Stefan Gates and Blue Peter's very own resident scientist Steve Mould! And if this isn't enough for you the Hyde Fundraisers will be bringing lots of replica characters from Doctor Who for a two day exhibition as part of their 25th Anniversary celebrations, don't forget to count the shadows if you visit! An amazing range of evening talks and debates will bring to life the latest in Cambridge research. Looking for something different? Check the Festival Fringe on page 36 where you can visit a time-travelling coffee shop or interpret science through dance. The programme pages are colour coded to help you find out what's on. Booking is only required where mentioned and unless otherwise stated can be done at www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or by calling 01223 766766. Pages are colour coded as follows: 14 – 27 March Throughout the Festival 19 March Science on Saturday Top Talks 19 March Science on Saturday New Museums Site 19 March Science on Saturday Downing Site 19 March Science on Saturday Mill Lane to Lensfield Road 19 March Science on Saturday Guildhall and the City 20 March Science on Sunday 26 March Science on Saturday 2
pages 4 – 9, 30 – 36 pages 10 – 11 pages 12 – 15 pages 16 – 17 pages 18 – 25 pages 26 – 28 page 29 pages 37 – 42
Last year's Cambridge Science Festival was our most successful yet with over 35,000 people taking part. With such large numbers of people please do bear with the volunteers and staff helping out, as queues are very likely and resources are limited. The Festival is hosted in working departments and is run by staff and student volunteers, who are all trying to give you the best experience possible, as well as to keep the events free and open to all. Please note that children should be accompanied at all times. Please check our website for the latest updates on events and follow us on: www.facebook.com/cambridgesciencefestival
www.twitter.com/camscience
The cover can be brought to life using an app for smartphones based on research from the Machine Intelligence Lab at the University of Cambridge’s Department of Engineering. Install the Popcode app on your phone, scan the Popcode below using the app and then view the cover to meet the elements. visit: www.popcode.info/sciencefestival from your phone or PC to find out more
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Throughout the Festival 12 March, 10.30am – 12.30pm, 2pm – 4pm
1 Colour and chemistry The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street The Museum collection is full of colour. This course aims to show how the study of art and the science of art conservation are perfect partners by exploring the symbolism, materials and methods of manufacture used to create colour through history.
Map: 33, Workshop, Ages 14 – 19, Pre book tel: 01223 332904 or email: fitzmuseum-education@lists.cam.ac.uk 14 March, 6.30pm – 7.30pm
2 Mundane futures: science, technology, and international development policy Michaelhouse Café, Trinity Street How do academics and science journalists inform policymakers, business communities, and the wider public about the development potential of techno-scientific innovation? Join David Dickson, Director of Science and Development Network (SciDev.Net), and Cambridge scholar Siddharth Saxena for this informative discussion.
Map: 37, Talk, Ages 14+ 14 March, 7pm – 8pm
3 Dambusters and the engineering behind the bouncing bomb Institute of Continuing Education, Madingley Hall, Madingley Dr Hugh Hunt (Department of Engineering) explores the engineering behind the famous bouncing bomb, which was designed in World War II to bounce at a target avoiding obstacles in its path. This lecture is in association with the Cambridge Society for the Application of Research (CSAR).
Map: online, Talk, Ages 18+, Pre book tel: 01223 746212 or visit: www.ice.cam.ac.uk/madingleylectures 14 March, 7.45pm – 8.15pm
4 Why does the universe have structure? Wesley Methodist Church Nave, Christ's Pieces (entrance from Short Street) Existentialist Martin Heidegger rated the question 'Why is there something rather than nothing' as the most fundamental issue in philosophy. In this talk, Dr Simon Mitton will explore understanding of the origin, evolution, and architecture of the universe.
Map: online, Talk, Ages 18+ 14, 16, 21, 23 March, 6.30pm – 8.30pm
5 Reproduction on film series Arts Picturehouse Cinema, St Andrew's Street The Reproduction on Film series covers the topic of reproductive dystopias and offers four different films which explore this topic, followed by discussion. 14 March: The Stepford Wives, introduced and with discussion led by John Forrester (University of Cambridge). 16 March: Island of Lost Souls and Tomorrow’s Children, double bill, introduced and with discussion led by Alec Charles (University of Bedfordshire). 21 March: Soylent Green, introduced and with discussion led by Jesse Olszynko-Gryn (University of Cambridge). 23 March: Children of Men.
Map: 29, Film, Ages 15+, Pre book tel: 0871 902 5720, email: cambridge@picturehouses.co.uk or visit: www.picturehouses.co.uk, adults £7.50, concessions £6.50
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Throughout the Festival 14, 17, 23 March, 1.05pm – 1.55pm
6 My science – my faith Merton Hall Farmhouse, Multi-Faith Chaplaincy Centre
FELICE TORRISI, NANO MOON
Scientists of different faiths give their testimony. 14 March: Nitish Metha, Hindu Economist and friends, 17 March: Abderahmen Zoghbi, Muslim Astrophysicist. 23 March: Rev Dr Rodney Holder, Christian Astrophysicist. Please check the Festival website for other talks in this series.
Map: 45, Talk, Ages 12+, Pre booking recommended tel: 01223 741718, email: chaplain@gsm.cam.ac.uk, fair-trade coffee, tea and chocolate will be on sale 14 – 27 March, 8am – 5pm
7 From nano to macro: photography exhibition Michaelhouse Café, Trinity Street From hidden engineering on the nano scale to outer space technology, explore an exhibition of astounding images taken by staff and students from the Department of Engineering.
Map: 37, Exhibition, Drop in, All ages 14 – 27 March, 9am – 5.30pm (11am – 5pm on Sundays)
8 Charles Darwin Correspondence Project exhibition Cambridge University Press Bookshop and Showroom, 1 Trinity Street Exhibition about the work of the Darwin Correspondence Project, which is editing all the known letters written by and to Charles Darwin. Volume 18 for 1870 has recently been published by Cambridge University Press.
Map: 34, Exhibition, Drop in, Ages 8+ ©BRUCE GERNAND
14 – 27 March, 10am – 4.45pm (Exhibition), 21 March, 7pm – 8pm (Talk)
9 Bruce Gernand's coded chimera Museum of Zoology, Downing Street Exhibition exploring the relationships between sculptural form making and biological morphogenesis through computer modelling. The exhibition will be running until 23 April 2011. Artist Bruce Gernand will be giving a talk about his exciting exhibition on 21 March at 7pm.
Map: 5, Exhibition/Talk, Drop in, All ages
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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Throughout the Festival 14 – 27 March, 1pm – 6pm (19, 20, 26, 27 March 10am – 6pm)
10 Molecules at work: aspects of life magnified two million times 283 Milton Road, Cambridge Models of molecules are set out in themes representing processes basic to life including principles of metabolism, how nutrients supply energy and photosynthesis. Plus a 5-metre model of Escherichia coli and scientific art of molecular illustration. Models made and arrangements devised by Dr Henry Tribe.
Map: online, Exhibition, Drop in, Ages 12+ 15 March, 6pm – 7pm
11 Success of the smelliest: pheromones and sex University Centre Sponsored by Cambridge University Press Moths, goldfish, snakes and fruit flies all react to pheromones. Get a sniff of the science with Dr Tristram Wyatt as he talks through how the behaviour of the animal kingdom is changed by these invisible molecules and why the human armpit could be a pheromone factory.
Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+ 15 March, 6pm – 8pm
12 Film screening of Memento Arts Picturehouse, St Andrew’s Street Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce) tracks down the man who raped and murdered his wife, and robbed him of the ability to lay down new memories. He can only remember his life in 15 minute segments. Dr Tim Bussey introduces how Memento was inspired by descriptions of the cognitive abilities of real life amnesic.
Map: 29, Film, Ages 15+, Pre book tel: 0871 902 5720 or visit: www.picturehouses.co.uk, adults £8.50, concessions £7.50, Picturehouse members £6.50 15 – 26 March (excluding 20, 21 March), 10am – 4pm
13 Exploration station II The Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road Explore frozen Antarctica and the hostile seas of the Arctic through hands on activities and the collections of the Museum. Explore the polar regions. How will you get kitted out? What will you shelter in? What will you find when you get there? Come and find out at the Museum.
Map: 23, Hands on, Drop in, All ages 16 March, 5pm – 6pm
14 Is there a female brain? Woodlegh Seminar Rooms, Strathaird, Lucy Cavendish College, Lady Margaret Road Popular culture contends that the brains of men and women differ dramatically. Others call this ‘Neurosexism’. Neuroscientists and social psychologists evaluate the scientific evidence and its implications in a discussion led by Melissa Hines, Professor of Psychology, with Dr Sabine Bahn and Dr Terri Apter. Organised by the Women’s Word Festival, Lucy Cavendish College.
Map: online, Talk, Ages 15+, Pre book tel: 01223 332196 or email: bjy21@cam.ac.uk
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Throughout the Festival 16 March, 5pm – 6pm
15 WiSETI annual lecture The Auditorium Theatre, Robinson College, Grange Road Sponsored by Schlumberger Cambridge Research Professor Sunetra Gupta from Oxford University – scientist, novelist and mother talks about her life and career, highlighting the issues that affect women in science.
Map: 41, Talk, Ages 12+, Pre book tel: 01223 760424, email: equality@admin.cam.ac.uk 16 March, 7pm – 8pm
16 The star-crossed stone – the archaeology, mythology and folklore of fossil sea urchins Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, Downing Street People have been collecting fossilised sea urchins for at least four hundred thousand years. Could our fascination with five-pointed stars be traced back to the pattern on these fossils? Palaeontologist Ken McNamara explores how science and mythology can unravel the impact of this on the religion and culture of many ancient societies.
Map: 11, Talk, Ages 16+, Pre book* 16 March, 7pm – 9pm
17 Unraveling genome secrets Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton An opportunity to hear from two of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute’s leading researchers, Dr Nigel Carter and Dr Julian Parkhill, on how the latest sequencing technology enables us to understand more about the genetic basis of human disease.
Map: online, Talk, Ages 16+, Pre book* 16 March, 7.30pm – 9pm
18 Science futures Murray Edwards College, Huntingdon Road Sponsored by Science AAAS Science research funding is hitting lean economic times. With less money should science be led by economic impact? How will the research landscape change? Join leading experts including former MP Dr Evan Harris and Dr David Cleevely of the Centre for Science and Policy among others, to debate how your tax money should be spent. Chaired by Tim Radford (The Guardian). Followed by a reception.
Map: online, Talk, Ages 14+ 16, 23 March, 7pm – 9pm
19 Public open evenings at the Institute of Astronomy Institute of Astronomy, Madingley Road A talk at 7.15pm followed by a public observing session, using both historical and modern telescopes (if the weather is clear). Public observing occurs Wednesdays from 5 January to 23 March, details at: www.ast.cam.ac.uk/public
Map: 44, Talk, Ages 12+
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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Throughout the Festival 17 March, 6pm – 7.30pm
20 The mathematics of jazz Recital Room, West Road Concert Hall Sponsored by Cambridge University Press Join Tim Gowers, Professor of Mathematics, as he explores how mathematics can reveal more about the secrets of jazz’s chords, harmonics and history. With live performance by a jazz trio.
Map: 26, Talk, Ages 14+ 17 March, 6.30pm – 7.30pm
21 Brains, minds and their connectivity Babbage Lecture Theatre, New Museums Site What's so special about the human brain network? We often think that the brain is uniquely complex in its design. But is it? What can computers and social networking sites (such as Facebook) tell us about the brain? In this lecture, Ed Bullmore (Department of Psychiatry) will explore the network organisation of the human brain and the implications for disorders including schizophrenia.
Map: 2, Talk, Ages 16+ 17 March, 7pm – 8.30pm
22 Computers, mobiles and the internet: can they make a difference to the lives of poor people? Queen’s Building, Emmanuel College, St Andrew’s Street We regularly hear how new technologies are going to transform poor people’s lives. In this talk, Tim Unwin, University of London takes a critical look at the evidence for how new technologies impact on poverty. Visit: www.humanitariancentre.org/ict4d
Map: 31, Talk, Ages 14+ 18 March, 5pm – 6pm
23 Andrew Chamblin memorial lecture: the hidden reality Babbage Lecture Theatre Physicist Brian Greene, author of The Elegant Universe, returns with The Hidden Reality: Parallel Worlds’and the Deep Laws of the Cosmos. Discover how mathematics can reveal the secret of our universe from the many worlds theory to holograms.
Map: 2, Talk, Ages 14+, Pre book* 18 March, 6pm – 8pm
24 Galileo’s Battle for the Heavens Italian Cultural Centre, La Dante in Cambridge, 60 Hills Road This film presents Galileo as a heroic figure who challenged the status quo. A man whose guide was fact and experiment, not inherited wisdom; the father of modern science.
Map: online, Film, All ages, Pre book tel: 01223 315191/ 07887 606227, email: info@ladante-in-cambridge.org or visit: www.ladante-in-cambridge.org, £3
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Throughout the Festival 18 March, 7.30pm – 8.30pm
25 Why are we not all fat? Babbage Lecture Theatre Sponsored by TTP
The last 50 years represent the first time in history in which the developed world have had access to abundant calories, so it’s unsurprising that obesity is common. What’s more puzzling is that there are still lots of lean people. Professor Stephen O’ Rahilly explains fundamental biological processes that regulate energy balance and how these interacted with evolutionary forces over many millennia.
Map: 2, Talk, Ages 14+, Pre book* 18, 19, 20 March, 12noon – 9pm
26 Invisible dust Jesus Green Swimming Pool How do we explore environmental problems such as air pollution when it disappears into the sky? Paris artists Hehe and Eastern region Liz Ballard (artists in residence at the School of Environmental Sciences, UEA) have created installations, performances and projections by day and after dark. Curator Alice Sharp.
Map: 38, Exhibition, Drop in, All ages 18, 19 March, 6.30pm – 8pm, 8pm – 9.30pm
27 Inside an unquiet mind by Squeaky Gate New Cellars, Pembroke College An exploration of mental health from all perspectives through music, drama and creative presentation from Squeaky Gate, in association with Cambridge Neuroscience. Set in a day room of a psychiatric hospital, audience members are invited to join 'patients' for an interactive TV show with a difference. Psychotic cocktails will be served. Warning: this show may challenge stereotypes.
Map: 35, Performance, Ages 12+, Pre book visit: www.squeakygate.org.uk, adults £8, concessions £4 19 March, 10am – 5pm
28 The archaeology of communication West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village, Ickingham Road, West Stow, Bury St Edmunds Investigate the archaeology of communication. How loud is an Anglo-Saxon horn? Can you crack the ancient codes? Explore the First English Village and find out.
Map: online, Drop in, All ages, Admission charges apply
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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19 March Science on Saturday Top Talks At the Babbage Lecture Theatre Map: 2, Ages 8+ 10.30am – 11.30am
29 Poking the brain with illusions Join Blue Peter scientist Steve Mould as he takes you on a magical tour into the world of illusions. Always thought illusions were just for your eyes? In this talk Steve will demonstrate how they can affect all your senses and make your mind boggle! Packed with spectacular demos and plenty of audience interaction – find out what makes purple peculiar, how can you see sound and what happens in the depths of the cone zone.
Pre book* 12noon – 1pm
30 Science Junkie Join avid adventurers, science junkies and self confessed geeks, Huw James and Greg Foot as they introduce you to the science behind the adrenaline-fuelled world of extreme sports! With action packed demos and opportunities to get involved in the show. See how science isn’t just in labs but out there on the sides of cliffs, in the waves or on the mountain trails. Take a whistle stop tour of adventure sports and the science behind them and maybe you too will become a Science Junkie!
1.30pm – 2.30pm
31 Gastronuts Join the BBC’s fanatical food adventurer Stefan Gates and chemist Dr Andrea Sella (he’s one clever fella) on a gastronomical journey through the science of food. See the science of sweets, enjoy explosive experiments and delve in to all things delicious. There will be plenty of audience participation, and for the lucky few, the chance to experience the legendary bum sandwich! Science doesn't get yummier than this!
Pre book* 3pm – 4pm
32 The science of Doctor Who: space, time, machine, and monster Aliens and time machines, cyborgs and Daleks, utopias and killer computers. In this talk, Mark Brake and Jon Chase take you on a journey through the fantastic worlds of Doctor Who, and asks you to consider the question, 'Do we live in a science fiction world?’
Pre book* 4.30pm – 5.30pm
33 The echo of creation Billions of years after the event, humans found they could tune their radios into the vast coldness of space to hear the echo of creation itself. A frozen relic preserved from the young universe which has caused cosmologists elation and puzzlement in equal measure. So hold on to your hats: with help from the audience (and a range of house-hold objects) expert Andrew Pontzen explains the story of cosmology’s greatest asset – and its greatest challenge – from the start of the twentieth century to a sneak preview of 2012...
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
In the Arts School Room A Map: 3, Ages 14+ 11am – 11.45am
34 The crisis for cosmology One of the most remarkable results of the last few years is the discovery of dark energy which is causing the expansion of our universe to accelerate towards the infinite future. In addition, our latest theories suggest that our universe is part of a much larger `Multiverse'. Join astronomer Professor George Efstathiou as he discusses some of the paradoxes associated with an infinite number of never ending universes and hint at their possible solutions.
12.15pm – 1pm
35 Science and social media With 10 years experience as a web producer working in film, comedy, technology and science communication, Gia Milinovich has learned a few things about using the web to get your message across. From Twitter to Tumblr, from Facebook to Flickr, Wordpress to Wikis, Podcasts to Vodcasts she will explore how to use them for communicating science and, most importantly, how not to use them.
1.30pm – 2.15pm
36 Incredible ears The ear is an amazing organ that allows us not only to hear but to stand upright as well. Join Dr Phil Cox as he explores how the ear works and examines its surprising evolutionary origins.
Ages 8+ 1.30pm – 3.30pm
37 Science research now Central Science Library (upstairs) Join leading researchers to get the insights into the latest research. Find out about science and technology breakthroughs from Cambridge and around the world. Please check our website for full talk schedule.
4pm – 5pm
38 Stand up mathematics Comedian and mathematician Matt Parker mixes his two passions with hilarious, statistically accurate results. As heard on BBC Radio 4's Infinite Monkey Cage, Matt will cover his favourite bits of mathematics before probably getting really annoyed about homeopathy or something. With no test at the end, this show is for everyone, regardless of your maths ability or level of intoxication! Maths heckles welcome.
In the Lady Mitchell Hall Map: 25, Ages 8+ 10.30am – 11.30am, 12noon – 1pm
39 The science behind Kinect Last November, Kinect for Xbox 360 brought the magic of full-body interactive gaming to the living room. In this dynamic and entertaining talk, Jamie Shotton and Chris Bishop from Microsoft Research will give on-stage demonstrations of the amazing new depthsensing camera, and reveal the science that allows Kinect to track your movements in 3D.
Pre book*
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on at the New
Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy Map: 7
10am – 4pm
44 Improbable thinking Café
Ice-cream is a unique material with amazing properties. See it under the microscope, learn the science behind sorbet, discover how to make perfect ice-cream, and taste our free samples.
Does your child ask you strange and magical questions about why things are the way they are? Where does the sky end? Why are street lamps yellow? How big is the brain of an ant? To find the answers to these questions and ask some more come and visit artists from the Wysing Arts Centre. Submit your questions online at: www.improbablethinking.org
Talk, Ages 8+, Pre book*
Map: 3, Hands on, Drop in, All ages
9.15am – 10am, 10.45am – 11.30am
40 The secret life of ice-cream
2pm – 5pm
41 SeeK
Join SeeK (Science and Engineering Experiments for Kids) with some fun hands on science. See how certain materials can remember and use this to make coils recoil. Create badges from plastic cups, a kaleidoscope or build the tallest egg tower.
Hands on, Drop in, All ages 2pm – 5pm
42 Materials: me, this, that, all! Understand the science behind materials by making clouds as well as powering lights with solar-cells and lemons! Superconductivity and nanotechnology will highlight principles behind the science of life.
10am – 4pm
45 The objects of science The Whipple Museum of the History of Science Explore the Whipple Museum's collection and investigate how some of our objects work using the handling trolleys. Come and see our Main Gallery with its newly refurbished display cases.
Map: 8, Hands on/Exhibition, Drop in, Ages 8+ 11am – 12noon, 2pm – 3pm
46 Get SET
Hands on, Drop in, Ages 5+
Information Marquee
2.30pm – 3pm, 3.30pm – 4pm
Find out what it is like to study science, engineering or technology at the University of Cambridge. Admissions and teaching staff will be available to help prospective applicants, parents and teachers ‘Get SET’ for the future. www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate
43 The new superheroes of physics: superconductors! Have you ever wondered what happens in space, in the cold regions far away from the stars? See and feel how metals behave strangely at very low temperatures.
Map: 1, Exhibition, Drop in, Ages 14+
Talk, Ages 14+
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Museums Site
Department of Zoology Map: 6 10am – 5pm
47 Crash, bang, squelch! Get to grips with exciting, fascinating and just plain weird experiments that show how some of the world around us works. Enthusiastic students from the CHaOS Science Roadshow will show you what's going on in our fun hands on experiments, covering lots of science that goes ‘crash’, ‘bang’ and ‘squelch’! During busy periods there’ll be timed tickets for later in the day – these ran out very early in 2010, so come early to avoid disappointment!
Hands on, Drop in, All ages 11am – 11.40am, 12noon – 12.40pm, 1pm – 1.40pm, 2pm – 2.40pm, 3pm – 3.40pm
48 Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly Descend into the basement of the Department of Zoology to see how real scientists are using the brains, guts and kidneys of fruit flies to learn more about how our own body works. We will show you what these tiny organs look like and how their function is affected by turning neurons on and off. Discover what we can learn by watching flies mate or collecting their droppings!
Hands on, All ages, Pre book*
11.30am – 12.15pm, 1pm – 1.45pm, 2pm – 2.45pm, 3pm – 3.45pm, 4pm – 4.45pm
49 CHaOS talks: more from the makers of ‘Crash, bang, squelch!’ CHaOS student volunteers will be giving talks covering biology, chemistry and physics. The demonstrations in these talks will be loud, messy and lots of fun! The talks were very busy in 2010, so arrive earlier in the day if you can. Spaces are on a first-come, first-served basis. For the latest details of what is in each talk visit: www.chaosscience.org.uk
Talk, All ages
Museum of Zoology Map: 5 11am – 4pm
50 Map of life: repeating patterns in evolution Explore how distantly related organisms have evolved amazingly similar solutions to life in their unique environments. Discover repeated or convergent evolution among gliding animals, desert plants, parasitic microbes and much more. www.mapoflife.org
Hands on, Drop in, Ages 5+
51 Amazing animals Explore the kingdom of animals at the Museum of Zoology. Meet live insects and discover our fantastic collections from the tiniest flies to the majestic finback whale. Hands on activities will be running throughout the day, and scientists from the Department of Zoology will be on hand to answer your creature questions.
Hands on, Drop in, All ages
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on at the New Biology Zone in the Arts School, Large Exam Hall 10am – 4pm (unless otherwise stated) Map: 4, Hands on, Drop in, All ages 52 Fascinating fat Come along and join in with the University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories to find out fabulous facts about fat! You will be able take part in hands on activities and games to learn about fat and why it is so important for our health.
53 Medicines under the microscope Join the Department of Pharmacology to fish for water fleas (Daphnia) and use a microscope to see their heart, guts, eye and eggs. Perform Daphnia heartrate experiments with drugs such as caffeine (coffee and cola), alcohol, nicotine and cold medicines.
54 Stem cells 'r' us! Have you ever wondered what stem cells are and what they can do? The MRC Centre for Stem Cell Biology present games and activities for all ages to answer all your questions. Come and see what you're made of.
55 EPIC mayhem: the nutrition games Play your nutritional cards right; balance the leaning tower of pizza; and enjoy a ‘trolley dash’ through the EPIC supermarket, all whilst learning about the vital role that specific vitamins and minerals play in our daily life.
56 The game of life! How does lifestyle impact on health? Visit the MRC Epidemiology Unit to see how genes, diet and physical activity can all affect a person’s health in the game of life.
57 Living and breathing – how hearts and lungs work Join staff from Papworth Hospital and have fun learning about your heart and lungs and how they work. Piece together our interactive dummy and see how much air is in your lungs. Take part in our heart quiz for a chance to win a prize and find out about the work of the Hospital and how you could get involved.
58 Getting to the heart of the matter – calcium signals and healthy ageing Find out what makes your heart tick from scientists at the Babraham Institute – everyone knows calcium is needed for healthy teeth and bones, but did you know calcium is also vital inside cells to regulate heart contractions?
59 Are you really what you eat? Join members of MRC Human Nutrition Research and our colleagues from the MRC Biostatistics Unit on the neighbouring stand to see whether you really are what you eat. Step on board our machines to find out what your own body’s recipe is and take our blind taste challenge to see if the foods you prefer are related to your future health.
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Museums Welcome SiteThe Science Festival starts here! Sponsored by
60 Everybody makes an antibody Antibodies are our body’s natural defences against infections and other diseases. Join MedImmune Ltd to build your own model of a therapeutic antibody, dress up as a scientist and have your picture taken.
10am – 3pm
61 Society of Biology Come and try our biology quiz, dissect owl pellets, have a go at mirror tracing, learn about primroses and much more. The Society of Biology champions the study and development of biology and provides expert guidance and opinion.
Biology Zone in the Arts School Rooms B, C and Café All events run between 10am – 4pm (unless otherwise stated) Map: 3, Hands on, Drop in, All ages 10am – 2pm
62 Bottle your genes Arts School Room B Students and staff from local sixth form colleges and the University of Cambridge will help you to isolate your own DNA, so you can bottle your genes and take them home with you.
63 Unraveling the scientific spice of life What makes us human? Just how similar are we to each other and other organisms? How can a genome affect your health? Join the Bioinformatics Institute and the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute to explore these questions and more.
64 Cancer and life Arts School Room C Cancer develops when cells divide out of control. There are preventable causes of cancer (eg smoking, sun exposure, diet) and non-preventable causes (eg inherited genes). This is why scientists believe that around half of all cancers could be prevented by lifestyle changes. Come and learn about your cells and cancer, and discover some healthy living tips.
65 How do we get energy out of food? We all know that we need to eat in order to get energy for our activities, but how does this work? The MRC Mitochondrial Biology Unit will use LEGO® to show how compartments in human cells make a biological fuel called ATP to power the cellular activities.
66 Cambridge AWiSE at the Science Festival Café Cambridge AWiSE connects and inspires women and girls to participate in science and enhance their careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Join them for some entertaining hands on experiments for all ages. Come along to find out what the network can offer you and speak to some friendly women scientists about their careers.
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on at the Dow
10am – 3pm
67 The cosmos of your body Department of Pathology Did you know your body hosts millions of microbes? Did you know that millions of proteins make your body function? Come and see the miniature world that is your body.
Map: 13, Hands on, Drop in, All ages 10am – 4pm
68 Plant power Plant Sciences Marquee From food and medicines and fuel, to the air we breathe, plants and fungi play a vital role in all of our lives. Come along and talk to plant scientists about the new ways humans are using plants and fungi, and find out about some of the most useful species in these amazing kingdoms.
Map: 9, Hands on, Drop in, All ages 10.30am – 3.30pm
69 Time Truck at the Sedgwick Museum Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences and Department of Earth Sciences Travel in time with Time Truck! Investigate rocks and minerals, discover dinosaurs and explore earthquake science with hands on activities and demonstrations.
10.30am – 4pm
70 The science of archaeology McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research Learn how modern science meets ancient relics. Were Neanderthals fussy eaters? Was the skeleton in your cupboard a man or a woman? Science can help archaeologists answer these questions and many others. Learn how by enjoying displays and hands on activities to discover the secrets revealed by pots, plants, soil, bones and even fossilized poo!
Map: 10, Hands on, Drop in, All ages 11am – 12noon, 2pm – 3pm (Workshops) 2pm – 4pm (Drop in)
71 Rock fluid: shaping memory in transit – a dialogue between science and art Department of Experimental Psychology Which ‘form’ links matter, perception and memory? Starting from a memory exercise, this workshop will be at the crossroad of psychology, geometry, performance and sculpture. Please bring an object which is dear to you.
Map: 15, Workshop, Ages 8+, Pre book email: rockfluid@elenacologni.com
Map: 11, Hands on, Drop in, All ages
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
ningWelcome Site The Science Festival starts here!
11am – 3pm
72 Science for life: exploring the mind Department of Experimental Psychology Come visit a selection of fun and interactive exhibits and posters showcasing our latest research. Discover what skills are needed for maths and try out some cool games that challenge your cognitive skills. Test how good you are at distinguishing reality from imagination and learn why, when it comes to intelligence, crows are feathered apes.
12noon – 1pm
75 What do drugs do to the brain? Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience A lecture on the psychopharmacology of cognitive enhancement, mental health and addiction. Professor Trevor Robbins FRS discusses his latest research on what drugs do to the brain.
Map: 14, Talk, Ages 12+
Map: 15, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 8+ 2pm – 3pm 11am – 3pm
76 Dyslexia, rhythm and music
73 Living energy
Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience
Department of Biochemistry Discover how plants use sunlight to make sugars. Learn how we can use the energy in sugars to make renewable fuels. This interactive event will include experiments, demonstrations, games and sugar tasting.
Professor Usha Goswami will give a talk on dyslexia, rhythm and music.
Map: 14, Talk, Ages 12+
Map: 12, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 8+ 2pm – 4pm
74 People: the amazing selfbuilding, self-operating machine! Physiological Laboratory This is a series of interactive displays and experiments looks at many of the most exciting questions in science: how do people and animals form, function and react?
Map: 16, Hands on, Drop in, All ages
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on at Mill Lane,
9.30am – 10.45am, 11am – 12.15pm, 1pm – 2.15pm, 2.30pm – 3.45pm
77 STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire – life is sweet! St Columba Church Hall Join STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire to explore the science of sweetness! Learn about sugar and taste, honey and rheology, jelly and bones and how candy floss has been linked to biomaterials. There will also be talks for all ages.
Map: 21, Hands on, Ages 6+, Pre book* 10am – 4pm
78 Rocket car derby University Centre Can you design a rocket car? The Department of Engineering invites you to design and make your own rocket car. How far will it travel? Please allow up to 1 hour for construction and testing.
Map: 20, Hands on, Drop in, All ages 10am – 4pm
79 Intel: sponsors of tomorrow™ University Centre Join Intel for demonstrations of several innovative technologies including multiplayer gaming, demos of our latest Intel® Core™ processors, home energy monitoring, Google* TV, 3D TV, showing people how to build their own PCs and much more. Fun for all ages!
Map: 20, Hands on, Drop on, All ages
10am – 4pm
80 Invisible Dust environmental science and art Mill Lane Lecture Rooms We breathe 20,000 times a day but does it do us good? Artists and air pollution scientists from King’s College will enable you to create ink ‘breath’ drawings, make instruments dependent on breath, like kazoos, and uncover the invisible. Invisible Dust involves artists and scientists working to explore air pollution, health and climate change. www.invisibledust.com
Map: 19, Hands on, Drop in, All ages 12noon – 4pm
81 Hands on maths fair Mill Lane Lecture Rooms Games and puzzles for all ages from the University's Millennium Mathematics Project. Pit your wits against the SOMA cube, tangrams, auntie's tea cups or giant dominoes, and sharpen your strategic reasoning skills!
Map: 19, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 5+ 1.30pm – 4.30pm
82 One body: a multitude of cells Gurdon Institute, Tennis Court Road Come along and observe your own cheek cells, prepare some DNA and watch fluorescent worms. Observe the first division of a frog egg, discover the lifestyle of the fly and meet the scientists of the Gurdon Institute.
Map: 24, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 5+
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Tennis Welcome Court Road The Science and Lensfield Festival Road starts here!
19, 20 March 10.30am – 4.30pm
83 Doctor Who display by the Hyde Fundraisers The Pitt Building Join the Hyde Fundraisers as they celebrate their 25th Anniversary Year with a special two day exhibition featuring classic characters and replica monsters from the new series of Doctor Who. Join the Judoon, catch up with K-9 and beware the Daleks, face the Vashta Nerada – count the shadows! Alongside these there will be plenty of other surprises as well as the chance to discover the science behind key themes in the show. Geronimo!
Map: 18, Exhibition, Drop in, All ages The Hyde Fundraisers are a voluntary organisation that raises funds for national charities and is now in its 25th year. Each year they raise funds for two charities, one of which is Children In Need. Suggested entry donation of £2 adult, £1 children. www.hydefundraisers.com
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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19 March Science on Saturday Lensfield Road Chemistry Zone in the Department of Chemistry, Lensfield Road Supported by the Walters Kundert Charitable Trust
10.30am – 5pm Map: 22, Hands on, Drop in, All ages For further information on all activities visit: www.openday.ch.cam.ac.uk A map and guide to all the activities in the Department of Chemistry will be available on the day from the main reception area outside the BMS Lecture Theatre.
84 Chemistry in action Hands on activities, demonstrations and games with the students and researchers from the department. You can create volcanoes or lava lamps out of common kitchen ingredients. Investigate the properties of ‘dry ice’, piece together your own DNA bracelets and draw an alien using its genetic code.
85 Royal Society of Chemistry Help celebrate 2011 International Year of Chemistry with a variety of wacky activities on the Royal Society of Chemistry stand and learn more about the Global Experiment.
86 Climate change: from Cambridge to Antarctica Display by the Centre for Atmospheric Science, British Antarctic Survey, and the Facility for Airborne Atmospheric Measurements Have you ever wondered what living in Antarctica is like? Do you know how scientists in Antarctica can help scientists in Cambridge understand Earth’s climate and how it has changed? To find out more, visit our display! You can learn about volcanoes and local pollution, understand the atmosphere and climate, experiment with state-of-the-art atmospheric sensors. You can also win a prize by finding the right answers to our atmospheric questionnaire.
What bright spark uses this? Start the International Year of Chemistry with a new challenge! This new competition is designed to enthuse students interested in chemistry. Set by an experienced team of school teachers and university lecturers, it will provide a valuable resource for study. Each month there will be an online chemistry challenge which anyone can enter, students and teachers alike! If you can solve all five levels, you will appear on the C3L6 Honours Board. The main competition will take place in schools in June and is only for Year 12 (Lower 6th) students or below. Students doing well will be sent certificates of achievement, and those who perform best will win an invitation to a residential camp at the University of Cambridge at the end of August.
get online to answer: C3L6.org
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Saturday 19 March pullout: events at a glance Events open throughout the day, drop in anytime Time 10am – 2pm 10am – 3pm 10am – 3pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 4pm 10am – 5pm 10.30am – 3.30pm 10.30am – 4pm 10.30am – 4.30pm 10.30am – 5pm 11am – 3pm 11am – 3pm 11am – 4pm 12noon – 4pm 11am – 4pm 2pm – 4pm 2pm – 4pm 2pm – 5pm 2pm – 5pm
Event Bottle your genes The cosmos of your body Interactive exhibits: Anglia Ruskin University and the IET Biology Zone: multiple exhibitors Improbable thinking The objects of science Unraveling the scientific spice of life Cancer and life Cambridge AWiSE Plant power Rocket car derby Intel: sponsors of tomorrow TM Invisible Dust environmental science and art Big Bang: the life and work of Fred Hoyle Crash, bang, squelch! Time Truck The science of archaeology Doctor Who display by Hyde Fundraisers Chemistry Zone: open day Science for life: exploring the mind Living energy Map of life: repeating patterns of evolution Hands on maths fair Amazing animals Rock fluid: shaping memory in transit People: the amazing self-building, self-operating machine! SeeK Materials: me, this, that, all!
Map 3 13 17 4 3 8 3 3 3 9 20 20 19 27 6 11 10 18 22 15 12 5 19 5 15 16 7 7
Type Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Exhibition Hands on Hands on Hands on Exhibition Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on Hands on
Age All ages All ages 8+ All ages All ages 8+ All ages All ages All ages All ages All ages All ages All ages All ages All ages All ages All ages All ages All ages 8+ 8+ 5+ 5+ All ages 8+ All ages All ages 5+
page 15 16 26-27 14-15 12 12 15 15 15 16 18 18 18 28 13 16 16 19 20 17 17 13 18 13 16 17 12 12
Type Talk Hands on Hands on Theatre Talk Talk Talk Hands on Talk Exhibition Workshop Talk
Age 8+ 6+ 12+ 8+ 8+ 8+ All ages 14+ 14+ 8+ 8+
page 12 18 28 10 11 12 13 11 12 16 25
Events with specific start times, please arrive on time Time Event 9.15am – 10am The secret life of ice-cream* 9.30am – 10.45am STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire – life is sweet!* 10am – 11am Build your own astrolabe* 10.30am – 11.30am Poking the brain with illusions* 10.30am – 11.30am The science behind Kinect 10.45am – 11.30am The secret life of ice-cream* 11am – 11.40am Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly 11am – 11.45am The crisis for cosmology 11am – 12noon Get SET 11am – 12noon Rock fluid: shaping memory in transit* 11am – 12noon The Wothers guide to the periodic table*
Map 7 21 27 2 25 7 6 3 1 15 22
*Pre book tel: 01223 766766 or visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival
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Information Marquee Babbage Lecture Theatre Arts School Rooms A, B, C and Café Biology Zone, Large Exam Hall Museum of Zoology Department of Zoology Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy Whipple Museum of the History of Science Plant Sciences Marquee McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences Department of Biochemistry Department of Pathology Dept of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department of Experimental Psychology Physiological Laboratory Guildhall The Pitt Building Mill Lane Lecture Rooms University Centre St Columba Church Hall Department of Chemistry The Polar Museum Gurdon Institute
25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49
Lady Mitchell Hall West Road Concert Hall St John’s College Downing College Arts Picturehouse Cinema Department of Engineering Emmanuel College Great St Mary’s Church The Fitzwilliam Museum Cambridge University Press Bookshop Pembroke College Cellars St Catharine's College Michaelhouse Café Jesus Green Swimming Pool The Open University Newnham College Robinson College Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences Centre for Mathematical Sciences Institute of Astronomy Merton Hall Farmhouse The Queen's Veterinary School Hospital Microsoft Research Cavendish Laboratory Institute for Manufacturing
See map online at: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival
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See map online at: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival
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Saturday 19 March pullout: events at a glance Time Event Map 11am – 12noon Good vibrations* 26 11am – 12noon Boots, boxes and books: the life, work and papers of Fred Hoyle 27 21 11am – 12.15pm STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire – life is sweet!* 11.30am – 12.15pm ChaOS talk 6 12noon – 12.40pm Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly* 6 12noon – 1pm Science Junkie 2 12noon – 1pm The science behind Kinect 25 12noon – 1pm What do drugs do to the brain? 14 12noon – 1pm Build your own astrolabe* 27 12.15pm – 1pm Science and social media 3 1pm – 1.40pm Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly* 6 1pm – 1.45pm ChaOS talk 6 1pm – 2pm Searching for the cosmic dawn: the quest for the first galaxies 27 1pm – 2.15pm STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire – life is sweet!* 21 1.30pm – 2.30pm Gastronuts* 2 1.30pm – 2.15pm Incredible ears 3 1.30pm – 2.30pm The Wothers guide to the periodic table* 22 1.30pm – 3.30pm Science research now 3 1.30pm – 4.30pm One body: a multitude of cells 24 2pm – 2.40pm Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly* 6 2pm – 2.45pm ChaOS talk 6 2pm – 3pm Get SET Information 1 2pm – 3pm Rock fluid: shaping memory in transit* 15 2pm – 3pm Dyslexia, rhythm and music 14 2pm – 3pm Build your own astrolabe* 27 2.30pm – 3pm The new superheroes of physics: superconductors! 7 2.30pm – 3.45pm STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire – life is sweet!* 21 2.30pm – 4pm Let Newton Be! 28 3pm – 3.40pm Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly* 6 3pm – 3.45pm ChaOS talk 6 3pm – 4pm The science of Doctor Who* 2 3pm – 4pm Astrobiology: the hunt for alien life 27 3pm – 4pm Tales of a time travelling coffee shop* 20 3.30pm – 4pm The new superheroes of physics: superconductors! 7 4pm – 4.45pm ChaOS talk 6 4pm – 5pm Stand up mathematics 3 4pm – 5pm The Wothers guide to the periodic table* 22 4.30pm – 5.30pm The echo of creation 2 5.30pm – 7.30pm Cooking in the danger zone: Polar food* 23 5.30pm – 10pm Can you make a difference?* 20 6pm – 7pm Starman: the truth behind the legend of Yuri Gagarin 44 6pm – 7.30pm Leonardo da Vinci The genius and his times* online 7.30pm – 9pm Let Newton Be!* 28 7.30pm – 10.30pm Festival of the spoken nerd* 20
Type Performance Talk Hands on Talk Hands on Talk Talk Talk Hands on Talk Hands on Talk Talk Hands on Talk Talk Talk Talk Hands on Hands on Talk Exhibition Workshop Talk Hands on Talk Hands on Performance Hands on Talk Talk Talk Performance Talk Talk Talk Talk Talk Talk Talk Talk Film Performance Performance
Age 8+ 14+ 6+ All ages All ages 8+ 8+ 12+ 12+ 14+ All ages All ages 12+ 6+ 8+ 8+ 8+ 14+ 5+ All ages All ages 14+ 8+ 12+ 12+ 14+ 6+ 16+ All ages All ages 8+ 12+ 16+ 14+ All ages 14+ 8+ 8+ All ages 12+ 12+ All ages 16+ 18+
(*indicates events that require pre booking, please check event listing for booking details)
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*Pre book tel: 01223 766766 or visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival
page 27 28 18 13 13 10 11 17 28 11 13 13 28 18 10 11 25 11 18 13 13 12 16 17 28 12 18 27 13 13 10 28 36 12 13 11 25 10 30 30 30 27 27 36
19 March Science on Saturday Lensfield Road Welcome The Science Festival starts here! 11am – 12noon, 1.30pm – 2.30pm, 4pm – 5pm There will be an additional showing on Monday 21 March, 7pm – 8pm
87 The Wothers guide to the periodic table – group 1, the alkali metals A lecture by Dr Peter Wothers In this demonstration-packed lecture Dr Peter Wothers explores the reactions of these most reactive elements. How is hydrogen related to this family of metals? What would our streets be like if sodium was replaced by rubidium? How much 'deader' could the Dead Sea get? How does lithium power our world and clear our minds? See the liquid gold of caesium.
Map: 22, Talk, Arrive on time, Ages 8+, Pre book (see below) Warning: Loud bangs, Ages 8+ Entry to all of the lectures by Dr Wothers will be ticket only due to safety regulations. The tickets are free and can be booked in advance by telephone (01223 336300) Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm, fax (01223 336362) or email (openday@ch.cam.ac.uk). Ticket requests made after 4.30pm on Friday 18 March will not be processed. Unallocated tickets and those not collected 15 minutes before the lecture begins will be available on a first come, first served basis. In addition seats not taken 5 minutes before the lecture begins will also be filled so even if you have a ticket please make sure you arrive on time or you may not be allowed entry. For further information on all activities visit: www.openday.ch.cam.ac.uk
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on in the city a What’s on at the Guildhall All activities run between 10am – 3pm Map: 17, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 8+ (unless otherwise stated) 88 Explore the genetics of grey and black squirrels Discover the genetics of grey, black and brown squirrels in this hands on activity. Examine hairs from black, grey and brown squirrels under a microscope. There will be a poster display and stuffed exhibits of grey and black squirrels.
89 Conduct your own crime scene investigation Put your investigative skills to the test to try and figure out whodunit. Try fingerprinting, footprint identification and bone excavation with this hands on activity.
Ages 5+
90 Respiratory function: take your breath away Come and get your lung function tested. Using a simple computer-based test you can explore how your lungs function and see how your scores compare to athletes across a wide range of sports.
91 Cardiovascular responses to exercise Explore how blood pressure, heart rate and the circulation interact to supply oxygen to working muscles and organs at rest and during exercise. See what happens when blood pressure is altered. Can you take the pressure?
92 Muscles in action Explore how muscles lengthen and shorten with this hands on activity. See how muscles are recruited for different tasks. Through the use of electromyography (EMG) you will witness the interaction between a muscle and the brain.
Ages 10+
93 World of sight and sound A world of sight and sound based activities for all ages from our Department of Vision and Hearing Sciences. Walk in to the hall of optical illusions, learn about how eyes and ears work and play with optical lenses which react to light to change their colour.
All ages
94 Silent recording studio In our silent recording studio you'll discover audio technology from the perspective of both a performer and a studio engineer. Audio technology allows endless possibilities, using integrated electronics, software and music.
Ages 10+
95 Have a go at creating a PhotoFit Have a go at creating a PhotoFit face, picking from a bank of hundreds of features. Having witnessed someone commit a crime, the witness is often asked to construct an image of that person using PhotoFit technology. Construction of a face involves picking each feature from a bank of several hundred. This is an incredibly difficult thing to do. Come and have a go.
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
and at Welcome the Guildhall The Science Festival starts here! Presented by
96 Visual illusions Visual illusions are not only fun to look at, but can also tell us a great deal about how the brain works. Find out how illusions create images that aren't really there and how others simply confuse the visual system.
97 Animal and human locomotion Measure your stride length or range of motion of your elbow by using a video camera and computer software. You can compare these to a horse or a dog, or guess how fast different animals move with our interactive quiz.
Ages 14 – 18
98 Learn how you could change the world using science and technology! Learn how you could change the world using science and technology. The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) is one of the world's leading professional societies for the engineering and technology community. www.theiet.org
All ages
What’s on in the city 11am – 12noon
99 Good vibrations West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road A lively interactive family show demonstrating how music works through maths! Have you ever wondered how music and maths are connected? Are you interested in Pythagoras's musical discoveries? Or how instruments make different sounds? This educational musical show demonstrates the connections between music, science and maths. With live demonstrations and performances from a chamber orchestra, this event is perfect for a family day out.
Map: 26, Performance, Ages 8+, Pre book* 2.30pm – 4pm, 7.30pm – 9pm
100 Let Newton Be! Howard Theatre, Downing College Isaac Newton – scientific genius, theological devotee and ruthless operator. This new verbatim play shows him as a master of self-reinvention, breaking through the myth to reveal the man. The play draws on archival research, using Newton’s own words and those of his contemporaries. Commissioned by the Faraday Institute.
Map: 28, Performance, Ages 16+, Pre book tel: 01223 300085, email: info@adctheatre.com or visit: www.adcticketing.com, adults £10, concessions £6.50, unsold tickets available on the door for cash/cheque 6pm – 7.30pm
101 Leonardo da Vinci The genius and his times Italian Cultural Centre, La Dante in Cambridge, 60 Hills Road Leonardo da Vinci’s name rings through history for so many reasons. Artist, scientist, genius, musician, mathematician. In this film we are taken on a rapid ride through his career and achievements. In English.
Map: online, Film, All ages, Pre book tel: 01223 315191 / 07887 606227, email: info@ladante-in-cambridge.org or visit: www.ladante-in-cambridge.org, £3
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on at St John’s College All activities take place in the Fisher Building (unless otherwise stated) Map: 27 10am – 11am, 12noon – 1pm, 2pm – 3pm
102 Build your own astrolabe The astrolabe is a medieval instrument for measuring and calculating the positions of the sun and stars. At this hands on session you'll learn how they work and construct your very own working model to take home and try out on starry nights.
Hands on, Ages 12+, Pre book* 10am – 4pm
103 Big Bang: the life and work of Fred Hoyle The Old Library Professor Sir Fred Hoyle FRS (1915–2001) was an astronomer, physicist, science fiction author and much more besides. He was one of the twentieth century's most creative and controversial scientists. A collection of his personal papers and artefacts were donated to St John’s College Library in 2002. This exhibition marks the end of a three-year Heritage Lottery funded project to catalogue them.
Exhibition, Drop in, All ages 11am – 12noon
104 Boots, boxes and books: the life, work and papers of Fred Hoyle Katie Birkwood has spent three years cataloguing the papers of astronomer Fred Hoyle. Come and hear what she found whilst working through 150 boxes of papers. There have been more than a few surprises. Find out which are the most intriguing, unexpected, and revealing items.
Talk, Ages 14+ 1pm – 2pm
105 Searching for cosmic dawn: the quest for the first galaxies What do we know about the earliest stars and galaxies? The formation of the first stars and galaxies not only ended the cosmic 'Dark Ages', but fundamentally altered the state of matter throughout the universe. For the first time, astronomers are close to capturing this early period of cosmic history. Find out more in a fascinating talk by Dr Dan Stark of the Institute of Astronomy.
Talk, Ages 12+ 3pm – 4pm
106 Astrobiology: the hunt for alien life Astrobiology is a brand new field of science, encompassing research into the origins and limits of life on our own planet, and where life might exist beyond the Earth. Join Dr Lewis Dartnell on a tour of the other planets and moons in our solar system which may harbour life, and even further afield to alien worlds orbiting distant stars, to explore one of the greatest questions ever asked, ‘Are we alone?’
Talk, Ages 12+
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
20 March Science on Sunday Top Talks at the Babbage Lecture Theatre Map: 2, Ages 8+ (unless otherwise specified) 11am – 12noon
107 The science of Doctor Who: space, time, machine, and monster Aliens and time machines, cyborgs and Daleks, utopias and killer computers. This event takes you on a journey through the fantastic worlds of Doctor Who, and asks you to consider the question, 'Do we live in a science fiction world?’
12.30pm – 1.30pm COPYRIGHT MASTER AND FELLOWS OF ST JOHN'S COLLEGE, CAMBRIDGE
108 Science of the superheroes Join the X2-men, Jonathan Wood and Brian Macken, as they put comic-book characters under the microscope and reveal what lies behind some of their superpowers. Maybe you can use this science to become super too, but remember that with great power comes great responsibility.
3pm – 4pm
109 Dave Ansell presents: vacuum bazookas! Join Dave Ansell (CHaOS and Naked Scientists) as he shows off a selection of his very favourite and explosive experiments in this new show. Expect the unexpected as he demonstrates vacuum bazookas and fire tornados, along with a quick trip though some of the wonderful properties of gasses.
Ages 12+
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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Throughout the Festival 19 March, 5.30pm – 7.30pm
110 Cooking in the danger zone: Polar food The Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road Join Stefan Gates for a gastronomical adventure to the poles. Discover the culture and food of Arctic peoples. Stefan Gates is a food adventurer, he spends his life cooking, eating, talking and travelling to discover the world and its people.
Map: 23, Talk, All ages, Pre book tel: 01223 336540 or email: cll45@cam.ac.uk 19 March, 5.30pm – 10pm
111 Can you make a difference? University Centre 15-year-old Rhys Morgan was noticed as far as Kenya with 1 tweet on a dangerous hoax cure. Hear him and Michael Marsh (10:23), David Colquhoun, Chris Smith (Naked Scientists) and Síle Lane (Sense about Science) talk on how you too could make a difference.
Map: 20, Talk, Ages 12+, Pre book email: andy-thinkcon@evath.net, £6 19 March, 6pm – 7pm
112 Starman: the truth behind the legend of Yuri Gagarin Institute of Astronomy It's 50 years since the first human space flight. Learn about the man who made the historic trip, Yuri Gagarin, with this fascinating talk by biographer Piers Bizony. Find out, too, about the brilliant Russian rocket pioneer who crawled, half-starved, out of a Siberian gulag to kick-start the Space Age.
Map: 44, Talk, Ages 12+ 19, 20, 26, 27 March, 10am – 4pm
113 Love your natural world Shepreth Wildlife Park, Station Road, Shepreth Visit Shepreth Wildlife Park as they kick start May 2011's 'love your zoo' celebration early! You can find out more about the important role of zoos today in the worldwide efforts to preserve the planet's diversity of species and ecological sustainability. There'll be lots of lively hands on activities for all ages and animal handling sessions. Meet educators who will tell you more about the conservation work going on at the Wildlife Park.
Map: online, Hands on, Drop in, All ages, Wildlife Park admission charges apply 19, 20, 26, 27 March, 11am – 5pm
114 The Cambridge phenomenon Cambridge Museum of Technology, The Old Pumping Station, Riverside Discover some of the people, companies and inventions that have put Cambridgeshire on the map over the last 50 years. See the high-tech industries which have grown up locally from the 1960s up to the present day. This exhibition looks at the people, companies and inventions which have made this city a centre of innovation.
Map: online, Exhibition, Drop in, Ages 11+, adults £3, children/concessions £1.50 19, 20, 21, 23, 25, 26 March , 11.15am – 1.15pm
115 From alchemy to DNA Tour will commence outside the Tourist Information Centre, Peas Hill Join specialist science guides on a walk along the path that leads from the search for gold to the secret of life. Discover how Cambridge chemists have shaped our lives from the food we eat to the medicines we take.
Map: online, Tour, All ages, Pre book*
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Throughout the Festival 20 March, 2pm – 4pm
116 Opticks and light tricks Kettle's Yard House and Gallery, Castle Street Sir Isaac Newton and artist Winifred Nicholson, born 250 years apart, were both fascinated by prisms and light. Artist Alex Hirtzel will introduce the ideas of both – using prisms from the Whipple Museum of the History of Science and paintings by Nicholson in the Kettle’s Yard collection.
Map: online, Hands on, Pre book tel: 01223 748100 or email: mail@kettlesyard.cam.ac.uk 21 March, 5.30pm – 6.15pm, 6.30pm – 7.15pm (Workshop), 7.30pm – 8.15pm, 8.15pm – 9pm (Talk)
117 Practical science at Cambridge Regional College Cambridge Regional College, Kings Hedges Road Science activities and talks from medical science professionals. There will be a chemistry based session that will look at techniques at identifying various chemicals (drugs analysis). Followed by a biology practical. Both will enable attendees to gain hands on practical experience. Talks will follow the practicals.
Map: online, Hands on/Talk, Ages 10+, Pre book* NASA
21 March, 6pm – 7pm
118 Invisible Dust at Jesus Green Swimming Pool, artists and scientists talk University Centre How do artists and scientists work together? Professor Peter Brimblecombe, UEA and artists Hehe and Liz Ballard will discuss the installations they have created at Jesus Green Swimming Pool about the effects of air and water pollution. Invisible Dust explores our responses to air pollution, health and climate change through joint art and science ventures. www.invisibledust.com
Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+ 21 – 25 March, 9.45am – 12noon, 12.30pm – 2.45pm
119 Rocket launchpad challenge – school parties only Department of Engineering, Trumpington Street Bring your class to the Department for a morning or afternoon to build and launch a rocket from its launchpad.
Map: 30, Workshop, Ages 8+, Pre book tel: 01223 415650 or email: stempoint@stemteamcambridgeshire.org.uk, Maximum number 32 22 March, 5.30pm – 7.30pm
120 Are truth and fiction polar opposites? Science and writing The Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road Is there room for linguistic experiment in scientific writing? Join poet Nancy Campbell for an evening of language games inspired by the ground-breaking experiments of early climate scientists in the Polar regions. Nancy Campbell's poetry publications include Boat Trip, Yan Tan Tethera and After Light.
Map: 23, Workshop, Ages 18+, Pre book tel: 01223 336540 or email: cll45@cam.ac.uk 22 March, 6pm – 7pm
121 Challenged by carbon: the oil industry and climate change University Centre Sponsored by Cambridge University Press We still need fossil fuels, but recent studies of the geological record show that we cannot burn with impunity the remaining supplies of coal, gas and oil, releasing the CO2. Join geologist Dr Bryan Lovell to learn why you can’t argue with a rock, but you can ask the oil barons to become prospective environmental saviours rather than villains.
Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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Throughout the Festival 23 March, 5.30pm – 7.30pm
122 Ice and climate change: science in the Polar regions The Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road Learn about some of the latest research from the Institute and the vital importance of the study of ice and climate science in the Polar regions. We have several research groups investigating a range of issues in both the environmental sciences and social sciences of relevance to the Arctic and Antarctica.
Map: 23, Talk, Ages 18+, Pre book tel: 01223 336540 or email: cll45@cam.ac.uk 23 March, 6pm – 7pm
123 Is evolution predictable? University Centre Nobody doubts evolution, but are all the problems solved? One widely accepted principle is that evolution is effectively directionless. Professor Simon Conway Morris argues for the exact reverse: like other sciences, evolution has surprisingly few options.
Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+ 23 March, 6pm – 8.30pm
124 A window on the brain MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, 15 Chaucer Road Lectures will highlight our varied research, plus there will be chance to take part in some experiments as well as meeting students and scientists. Hands on activities for the first hour, followed by three short talks.
Map: online, Hands on/Talk, Ages 14+ 23 March, 7.30pm – 8.30pm
125 The hidden mysteries within the DNA of cancers University Centre The current dogma is that all cancers arise due to abnormalities in DNA, however, until very recently, our ability to look into the DNA of cancers has been very limited. In this lecture Professor Mike Stratton (Director of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute) discusses how the revolutionary changes in DNA sequencing technology are beginning to illuminate the dark landscape of cancer genomes.
Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+ 24 March, 4pm – 6.30pm
126 Inauguration of the Winton Programme for the Physics of Sustainability Pippard Lecture Theatre, Cavendish Laboratory The magnificent gift of £20 million from David Harding to support a major programme of fundamental and applied research in the Physics of Sustainability will be inaugurated at a special event at the Cavendish Laboratory. In addition to an introduction to the Winton programme with distinguished speakers, related research areas in the Laboratory will be open for a reception following the inauguration from 5pm to 6.30pm.
Map: 48, Talk, Ages 16+, Pre book* 24 March, 6pm – 7pm
127 Changing nature: a view of Britain and Cambridge University Centre Sponsored by Cambridge University Press In the future will a walk in the countryside be a silent one? The last 20 years has seen a dramatic change in Britain’s wildlife, including Cambridgeshire. Discover what the future holds and how we can make a difference with Norman Maclean and Brian Eversham, writers of Silent Summer: The State of Wildlife in Britain and Ireland.
Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Throughout the Festival 24, 25 March, 9.45am – 11am, 11am – 12.15pm, 1.15pm – 2.30pm
128 Science of sport – school parties only Indoor Cricket School, PE Centre, Fenner’s, Gresham Road Come and test your strength, fitness and agility using our fun, interactive challenges. Who’s the most co-ordinated in your class? Have you got quicker reaction times than your teacher? Other activities include batak wall, target practice, vertical jumps and a speed test.
Map: online, Hands on, Ages 8 – 13, Pre book tel: 01223 336997 or email: bookings@sport.cam.ac.uk 24 March, 4.30pm – 7pm
129 Look what chemistry has done for me – a ChemNet event Royal Society of Chemistry, Thomas Graham House, Science Park, Milton Road 2011 is the International Year of Chemistry! Why not come and celebrate it in style at this event. If you’re interested in studying chemistry at higher education, pursuing it as a career or just a general enthusiast, come and find out what chemistry can do for you. Talk to chemists over a buffet.
Map: online, Talk, Ages 15+, Pre book tel: 01223 432340, email: events@rsc.org or visit: www.rsc.org/ConferencesAndEvents 24 March, 5pm – 7pm (Talk starts at 6pm)
130 Rough Science: the highs and lows The Open University in the East of England, Cintra House, 12 Hills Road Mike Bullivant, the Chemistry presenter from The Open University's popular BBC2 series Rough Science, will talk about some of the highs and lows of doing science in exotic locations. We'll also take a look at some of the amusing outtakes from the series, and challenges that didn't quite go according to plan (tea and coffee available).
Map: 39, Talk, Ages 16+, Pre book tel: 01223 364721 ext 66147, email: R06-Outreach@open.ac.uk or visit: www.open.ac.uk/events 24 March, 1.30pm – 4.30pm, 25 March, 10am – 4.45pm, 26 March, 11am – 4pm
131 Poster exhibition of Graduate School of Life Sciences Museum of Zoology, Downing Street An exhibition of posters and images of work by PhD, MPhil and postdoctoral researchers in the life science disciplines. All student exhibitors will be there to discuss their work with visitors on Thursday 24 March from 1.30pm – 4.30pm. The exhibits will be judged and prizes awarded for the best work at 4.30pm.
Map: 5, Exhibition, Drop in, All ages 24 March, 5.30pm – 7.30m
132 British Graham Land Expedition (BGLE 1934 – 37) The Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road The Museum’s Brian Lintott explains how the BGLE established the foundation of Britain's ongoing scientific endeavours in Antarctica. Event includes a discussion, film and the opportunity to view the exhibition.
Map: 23, Talk/Film, Ages 18+, Pre book tel: 01223 336540 or email: cll45@cam.ac.uk 24 March, 8pm – 9pm
133 The learning brain University Centre Our brains learn by processing large amounts of information including written words, visual information and numbers. Conditions like dyslexia can pose enormous challenges for some people learning reading and writing. Panel discussion with Professor Usha Goswami and experts in neuroscience and dyslexia exploring how the latest research might change the way we teach and learn. Organised by the Royal Society.
Map: 20, Talk, Ages 12+, Pre book*
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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Throughout the Festival 25 March, 10am – 4pm
134 Scott Polar Research Institute open day The Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road Come see what our scientists and researchers are up to in Cambridge and out in the field. Learn about some of the latest research from the Institute and see what it takes to conserve Museum objects. We have several research groups investigating environmental sciences and social sciences relevant to the Arctic and Antarctica.
Map: 23, Open day, Drop in, All ages 25 March, 4pm – 5pm
135 Tooling up for nanoworld: the magic of molecular machines Department of Chemistry, Lensfield Road The widespread use of molecular level motion in key natural processes suggests that great rewards could come from bridging the gap between the machines of the macroscopic world and systems that function at the nanoscale. This lecture, in memory of Alex Hopkins, will describe progress on the design and assembly of molecules with moving parts and their development into artificial molecular machines.
Map: 22, Talk, Ages 14+, Pre book tel: 01223 336339 or email: slb66@cam.ac.uk 25 March, 6pm – 7pm
136 You are what you hear: music and the brain University Centre Dr Harry Witchel researches music, pleasure and the brain. Join him to explore, in a way never previously done, the human relationship with music and how music makes us who we are.
Map: 20, Talk, Ages 16+ 25 March, 7.30pm – 9pm
137 Stem cells: current treatments and potential therapies Murray Edwards College, Huntingdon Road Sponsored by Pfizer Stem cells have been used to treat leukaemia and other blood disorders for many decades, yet it’s their potential to alleviate a multitude of medical conditions that has captured the world’s attention. Come and hear scientists, clinicians and stem cell recipients share their knowledge, experience and expectations surrounding present and future therapies.
Map: online, Talk, Ages 12+, Pre book* 26 March, 10am – 4pm
138 Buddhism and science Cambridge Buddhist Centre, 38 Newmarket Road A talk exploring the relationship between the ancient teachings of the Buddha and modern science.
Map: online, Talk/Tour, All ages 26 March, 2pm – 3pm
139 Thinking of becoming a science teacher? Faculty of Education, Donald McIntyre Building, 184 Hills Road If you are thinking about teaching, either coming straight out of your degree or as a career change, this session is for you! Cambridge's Secondary PGCE in Science staff will give a presentation and answer any questions you might have.
Map: online, Talk, Ages 18+
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Throughout the Festival 26 March, 2.30pm – 4pm
140 Enhancement: how far do we go? Mill Lane Lecture Rooms, 8 Mill Lane The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion presents a public discussion on human enhancement between four experts in the field and the audience. Approximately 45 minutes from the panel, followed by questions and interaction.
Map: 19, Talk, Ages 16+ 26 March, 6pm – 7.30pm
141 The science of the flavour of wine Todd-Hamied Room, Department of Chemistry, Lensfield Road Sponsored by Royal Society of Chemistry and Society of Chemical Industry Join Luke Webster in a lecture describing the complex chemistry of flavour generation and evolution in wines, complemented by an illustrative tasting. There will be light food to accompany the wines. All wines supplied by Cambridge Wine Merchants.
Map: 22, Talk, Ages 18+, Pre book email: john.otoole9@btopenworld.com, £10 27 March, 11am – 3.30pm
142 Explore the natural world at Wandlebury Country Park Wandlebury Country Park, Wandlebury Ring, Gog Magog Hills, Babraham Explore the diversity of life in Wandlebury Country Park. Walk the nature trail, meet our amphibians, look at aquatic life under the microscope, find out what owls eat and make a home for solitary bees in your garden.
Map: online, Hands on, Drop in, All ages 27 March, 3pm – 6pm
143 Bird tango Jane Harrison Room, Newnham College What connects a scientist studying bird movements and a passionate tango dancer? Psychology Professor Nicky Clayton explains how behaviour of birds has led to Rambert Dance Company's new science-inspired works. Get involved yourself by trying out some bird tango steps. Functional footwear is advised.
Map: 40, Talk/Workshop, Arrive on time, Ages 16+, Pre book* 27 March, 6pm – 7.30pm, 8.30pm – 10pm
144 Mike Maran Productions presents: did you used to be R D Laing? Mumford Theatre, Anglia Ruskin University, East Road Mike Maran brings you R D Laing, pop-shrink, rebel, yogi, philosopher king, and healer, maybe. Based on the music of Bill Evans, Chick Corea, Keith Jarrett and Chopin, arranged for piano and performed live on stage by David Milligan. You'd be crazy to miss it!
Map: online, Performance, Ages 14+, Pre book tel: 01223 352932, email: mumford@anglia.ac.uk or visit: www.anglia.ac.uk/mumfordtheatre, adults £11, concessions £8.50, box office open 2pm – 5pm, Monday – Friday only 27 March, 6.30pm – 7.30pm
145 Festival evensong Great St Mary's Church, Senate House Hill A traditional Anglican choral evensong at the University Church in celebration of the Science Festival. Preacher: Rev Dr Geoff Cook.
Map: 32, Service, All ages
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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Cambridge Science Festival Fringe 16 March 8pm – 9pm
146 The science of sex 2011 CB2 Café, 5/7 Norfolk Street Funny Women finalist Rosie Wilby brings you the sequel to the Fringe report. Award winning The science of sex delves further into the science of attraction and sexual chemistry.
Map: online, Talk, Ages 18+, Pre book visit: www.wegottickets.com/event/101010, £5 19 March 3pm – 4pm
University Centre, Grads Café Set the Baristotron to 1911 and join Helen Arney in a time-travelling tale of quantum physics and cappuccinos. ‘Champion of musical whims’ (Evening Standard), ‘Charming, witty, warm’ (The List), ‘Delightful’ (Chortle), ‘High-class musical comedy’ (Broadway Baby). www.helenarney.comm
Map: 20, Performance, Ages 16+, Pre book £5* (includes coffee), unsold tickets available on the door for cash
Helen Arney
STEVE ULLATHORNE
ALEX BRENNER
147 Tales of a time-travelling coffee shop
Steve Mould
19 March 7.30pm – 10.30pm
148 Festival of the spoken nerd University Centre Musical comedian Helen Arney, stand-up mathematician Matt Parker and Blue Peter's resident science expert Steve Mould bring you the ‘Festival of the spoken nerd’. There'll be comedy, songs, science, special guests, interactive maths, maybe some things that go bang... and always time for questions at the end.
Map: 20, Performance, Ages 18+, Pre book £5*, unsold tickets available on the door for cash
149 So you think you can dance science! Jane Harrison Room, Newnham College Cambridge scientists and dance-artists join forces to create five dance riddles based on cutting-edge research in Cambridge. You are invited to help solve the puzzle, with the closest guess winning a special treat. An evening of splendid mashing up of local creative scientists and dance talents. This is one to watch!
Map: 40, Performance, Ages 18+, Pre book £5*, unsold tickets available on the door for cash
Matt Parker
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
CONOR CAHILL
26 March 7pm – 8pm
26 March Science on Saturday 2 Mathematics Zone at the Centre for Mathematical Sciences 12noon – 4pm (unless otherwise stated) Map: 43, Hands on, Drop in, All ages (unless otherwise stated) 150 Enigma: codes and codebreaking The Enigma cipher was one of the most powerful weapons of WWII – an apparently unbreakable code. How did a small group of mathematicians crack it? Come and see a demonstration of a genuine Enigma machine, and try your hand at breaking different codes used throughout 2500 years of history.
Ages 8+
151 Hands on maths fair Games and puzzles for all ages from the University's Millennium Mathematics Project. Pit your wits against the SOMA cube, tangrams, auntie's tea cups or giant dominoes, and sharpen your strategic reasoning skills.
Ages 5+
152 Maths public open day Cambridge mathematicians work on everything from the Big Bang and prime numbers to modelling climate change or the spread of disease. Hands on demonstrations and displays for all ages will share the excitement of mathematics and theoretical physics.
12.30pm – 1.15pm, 1.45pm – 2.30pm, 3pm – 3.45pm
153 Who wants to be a mathionaire? Explore the maths of probability, chance and uncertainty in this exciting and highly interactive game-show style quiz, using hand-held voting technology to answer against the clock.
Workshop, Ages 14+ 2pm – 3pm
154 Stirring tales of evolution One of the fundamental issues in evolutionary biology is the nature of transitions from single cell organisms to multicellular ones. What is the advantage of being larger? What are the driving forces behind the appearance of different cell types? Professor Ray Goldstein will describe the approaches to this problem illustrating the synergy between mathematics, physics, and biology in current research.
Talk, Ages 14+
at the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences 12.30pm – 1.30pm Map: 42, Talk, Ages 14+ 155 Viruses under the mathematical microscope: deciphering the code of viral geometry Reidun Twarock will explore how viruses can act like Trojan horses to hijack cells and how capsids are giving us insights into how viruses may be defeated. She will will then look at how mathematical tools can provide a novel look on how viruses evolve. After the talk you can play with computer simulations or build your own icosahedra.
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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26 March Science on Saturday 2
10.30am – 11.15am, 11.45am – 12.30pm, 1.30pm – 2.15pm, 2.45pm – 3.30pm
156 Maps, moon rock and royal visits: treasures from the archives Sedgwick Museum Conservation Unit, Brighton Building, Madingley Road Have you ever wondered about what geologists get up to on their field-trips? Or who brought the first samples of moon rock to Cambridge and why? Meet the Sedgwick Museum’s Archivist who'll answer these questions with the help from the Museum archive. Geological notebooks and diaries, maps, photographs and letters all reveal the story of the people behind the Museum.
2pm – 5pm
158 Vet Hospital open day The Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital Come and see a fully functional hospital for fourlegged patients. Visit the Imaging Department, Small and Large Animal Wards, Intensive Care Unit, Theatre Suite and our own Cancer Therapy Unit. Pre bookable guided tours are available and there is also a range of hands on activities to explore. Please remember our patients are sick so you won't be able to play with them. No pets.
Map: 46, Hands on, Drop in, All ages, Pre book*
Map: 11, Talk/Exhibition, Ages 10+, Pre book* 11.30am – 12.30pm, 2pm – 3.30pm
157 Fossil finds Sedgwick Museum Conservation Unit, Brighton Building, Madingley Road A unique chance to visit behind the scenes at the Sedgwick Museum’s Conservation Unit. Find out about how fossils are carefully removed from the rock in which they are preserved ready to be studied and displayed in the Museum. Learn to be a Geological Conservator and extract and prepare a fossil for yourself.
Map: 11, Hands on/Workshop, Ages 8+, Pre book*
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
26 March Science on Saturday 2
2pm – 5pm
159 What goes on behind the doors of a Computer Science Lab? Microsoft Research Well, prepare to be surprised. Computing is not just about spread sheets and presentation slides, it’s used to do many more amazing things that you perhaps wouldn’t expect. Take the Xbox 360 hands-free controller Kinect – computer science made this possible. Come and find out more about the science behind this and other exciting Microsoft Research projects.
7pm – 9pm
161 Public observing Institute of Astronomy, Madingley Road Observe the night sky through both modern and historical telescopes at the Institute’s lawns if (and only if ) the weather is clear.
Map: 44, Hands on, Drop in, All ages
Map: 47, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 10+ 2.30pm – 6.30pm
160 Open afternoon Institute of Astronomy, Madingley Road The Institute of Astronomy and Kavli Institute for Cosmology will be open to the public, with posters, demonstrations and displays showing you our research into astronomy and cosmology. The historic Cambridge Observatory building will also be open, with an exhibition in the library. There will be a programme of talks in our lecture theatre, and a craft tent with creative activities for families.
Map: 44, Hands on, Drop in, All ages
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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26 March Science on Saturday 2 Physics Zone in the Cavendish Laboratory 1pm – 5pm (unless otherwise stated) Map: 48, Hands on, Drop in, All ages (unless otherwise stated) 162 Experiments, demonstrations and CHaOS Exciting practical demonstrations of diverse physics, which reveal the beauty and surprise of scientific understanding and how it is relevant to everyday life.
163 Physics zone Experience physics in action – a new range of earth shaking events and make a science toy to take home. Past Festival favourites return including test the strength of a vacuum in a tug of war, fly an egg and see many new scientific surprises. To avoid over-crowding coloured tickets for specific times will be allocated on arrival.
164 Astronomy roadshow planetarium Sponsored by the East Anglia Branch of the Institute of Physics Explore the beauty of the night sky. Learn about space, stars and the solar system through these interactive and lively shows. Times are 1.15pm, 2pm, 2.30pm, 3.15pm, 3.45pm and 4.30pm.
Pre book visit: http://tinyurl.com/cavendish-sw 1.15pm – 2.15pm
165 Greener solar cells Sunlight is the only really abundant form of renewable energy available. In the future we will need it to generate electricity on a large scale and current methods of solar capture are too expensive to compete with fossil-fuels. In this talk, Professor Richard Friend looks into the future of cheaper solar cell production, using carbon-based molecules, which take inspiration from how green plants harness solar energy.
Talk, Ages 14+
166 Meet the Physicist talks Pippard Lecture Theatre 2.15pm – 3pm, Astronomy: rough guide to the Universe with Dr LisaJardine-Wright. Ages 5+ 3.15pm – 4pm, 4.15pm – 5pm, Crisp packet fireworks with Dave Ansell. Ages 12+
Small Lecture Theatre 1.15pm – 2pm, 2.15pm – 3pm, Vacuum bazookas and custard fireballs with Dave Ansell. Ages 12+ 3.15pm – 4pm, Astronomy and physics: light the messenger with Dr Lisa Jardine-Wright. Ages 8+ 4.15pm – 5pm, Cavendish: most famous discoveries with Dr Lisa Jardine-Wright. Ages 14+
Talk, Pre book visit: http://tinyurl.com/cavendish-sw To guarantee a seat at these lectures you can pre book for a maximum of three lectures online at: http://tinyurl.com/cavendish-sw. Some seats will be available on the day, but can not guaranteed unless booked in advance.
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
26 March Science on Saturday 2 Manufacturing Zone in the Institute for Manufacturing 1pm – 5pm (unless otherwise stated) Map: 49, Hands on, Drop in (unless otherwise stated) 167 Maketastic! Enjoy a host of activities including creating your very own laser photo. Witness biological construction by some of nature’s brilliant builders. Find out how our heat-sensitive camera can capture your image after you’ve gone. Watch demos by the ink-jet research team, including 'stopping' time and creating lightning from water drops. There will also be a chance to see the robots in action in our state-of-the-art automation lab.
Ages 5+
168 Laser fest Get a glimpse of the latest laser technologies and find out how they are used in industry. Watch high speed lasers engrave the head of a live match so fast it isn't even set alight. See what happens when a powerful laser is fired against small metal particles within a supersonic jet stream, and witness lasers cutting through metals up to 30mm thick. Get a close view of some magnificent mini-beasts using our powerful electron microscope.
Ages 8+, Booking available on the day
169 Mini make-it Ever had an idea for a wizard widget or great gizmo? Our resident inventors will try to help you turn your ideas into reality at the Makespace mini make-it event. Just bring along your idea and have a go at making it.
Ages 5+, Booking available on the day
170 Laser rocket racing Fire lasers at mini rockets and make them speed along a wire track. Race your friends and family and see who is the fastest.
Ages 8+ NASA
1pm – 1.45pm, 2pm – 2.45pm
171 Never tell an engineer it can't be done! From manned space flight to conquering the ocean depths. Dr Tim Minshall will show how challenges are the inspiration for innovation.
Talk, Ages 10+, Pre book* 3pm – 3.45pm, 4pm – 4.45pm
172 The Santa Claus machine Have you ever dreamed of being able to make anything you like in your own home – having a kind of ‘Santa Claus Machine’ in your bedroom to create a must-have toy or the latest gadget? It may sound like science fiction but Dr Bill O’Neill will showcase some of the fascinating technologies that are helping to make such personal factories a reality.
Talk, Ages 10+, Pre book*
*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
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26 March Science on Saturday 2 DISNEY/PIXAR ANIMATION
10am – 12.30pm
173 Film screening of Finding Nemo
11am – 3pm
176 INSTRUCT lab workshop
Arts Picturehouse, St Andrew’s Street
Faculty of Education, 184 Hills Road
Find out how the brain and memory work with a free, fun-filled science activity before the film at 10.30am.
The INSTRUCT research group (sites.google.com/site/instructlab) has been studying how students' reasoning abilities relate to their ability to learn about scientific ideas that involve things we can't see from atoms to cells. Join the Director, Dr Michelle Ellefson, to try out one of our new computer tasks and take part in an activity looking at how things dissolve in water.
Map: 29, Film, All ages, Pre book (available from 19 March) tel: 0871 902 5720 or visit: www.picturehouses.co.uk, children £4.50, adults free, Kids Club members £3.40 10am – 3pm
174 Translating science into medicine
Map: online, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 5+ 11am – 3pm
177 Infant cognition workshop
St Catharine’s College, Trumpington Street
Faculty of Education, 184 Hills Road
Activities that showcase translational medicine and therapeutics including demonstrations of clinical trials, posters, prizes and a lot more
The Infant Cognition Lab is interested in how babies see the world. Even though they cannot speak, they can make sense of things around them. Join the Director, Dr Claudia Uller, who will be running a workshop on how babies think: what we have learnt so far, and what our research aims to find out.
Map: 36, Hands on, Drop in, All ages 10.30am – 4pm
175 Schools Zone University Centre Teams of students from secondary schools and sixth form colleges are the experts, showing what is happening in schools either as part of their curriculum or in after-school clubs. Expect loads of enthusiasm from the future generation of scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians as they bring interactive fun to the Festival. Last year hundreds of visitors passed through the University Centre and this year’s event will be even bigger and better!
Map: online, Workshop, Drop in, This event is intended for babies 0-18 months
Map: 20, Hands on, Drop in, All ages
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*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766
Accessibility guide For further information about accessibility, please contact the Information Centre on: 01223 766766 or email: csf@admin.cam.ac.uk Monday – Friday: 9am – 5pm until 26 March, also from 9.30am – 4pm on Saturdays 19 and 26 March. Li I
T Toilet, wheelchair accessible L Level, ramped access PA Partial access, ring for details Arts Picturehouse Cinema
T, L, PA, I
Lift to all floors Induction loop
Kettle’s Yard
T, PA
Arts School Rooms A, B, C and Café
T, L, Li
Lady Mitchell Hall
Babbage Lecture Theatre
L, Li, I
Lucy Cavendish College
Biology Zone, Large Exam Hall
T, L, Li
McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
Cambridge Buddhist Centre
T, PA
Cambridge Museum of Technology Cambridge Regional College Cambridge University Press Bookshop CB2 Café
Michaelhouse Café
T, L, Li
Microsoft Research
T, L, PA
No access T, L, Li, I
Department of Biochemistry
T, L
Department of Chemistry
T, PA
Mill Lane Lecture Rooms
T, L, Li, I
Mumford Theatre
T, L, Li, I
Murray Edwards College Museum of Zoology Newnham College
L, Li
The Open University
Department of Experimental Psychology
L, Li
Pembroke College Cellars
Department of Pathology
T, L, Li PA
T, L, Li
MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit
Department of Engineering Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy
L T, L
T, L
T, L, Li
Centre for Mathematical Sciences
T, PA
T, L, Li L
Cavendish Laboratory
Merton Hall Farmhouse
T, L, Li
Physiological Laboratory The Pitt Building
T, L, I T, L, Li T, L T, L, Li PA L, PA T, L, Li, I
Dept of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience T, PA
The Polar Museum
T, Li, I
Department of Zoology
Robinson College
T, L, I
L
Downing College
T, L, Li
Emmanuel College
T, PA, Li
Faculty of Education
T, L, Li
The Fitzwilliam Museum Great St Mary’s Church Guildhall The Guildhall (walk)
Institute of Astronomy
PA
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences Shepreth Wildlife Park
T, L, I
St Catharine's College
No access
Indoor Cricket School, Fenner's
PA
Sedgwick Museum Conservation Unit
T, L, Li, I T, L, Li
Gurdon Institute
Royal Society of Chemistry
T, L, Li, I T, L T, PA
St Columba Church Hall St John’s College The Queen's Veterinary School Hospital University Centre Wandlebury Country Park
T, PA, Li T, L PA T, L, Li, I T, L, PA T, L T, L, Li T, L
Institute of Continuing Education
T, L
Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute
PA
Institute for Manufacturing
PA
Wesley Methodist Church
L, I
Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences
T, L, I
West Road Concert Hall
Italian Cultural Centre, La Dante
PA
Whipple Museum of the History of Science
Jesus Green Swimming Pool
PA
283 Milton Road
T, L, I L, Li No access
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Community Affairs The Cambridge Science Festival is co-ordinated by the Community Affairs team at the University of Cambridge. The Community Affairs team acts as a central information point for members of the public. We also work across the University and Colleges to support community and outreach activities. The programmes we support range from annual festivals, one day events that raise funds for charities, student run schemes and educational programmes. Every year, Community Affairs co-ordinates the Open Cambridge weekend in September, the Cambridge Festival of Ideas in October and the Cambridge Science Festival in March. 9 – 11 September 2011
Open Cambridge Cambridge is home to some spectacular architecture, fantastic art collections and beautiful gardens. Open Cambridge is a weekend of tours, talks and open access, in which buildings, grounds and collections go on display for families, local residents and community groups. The full programme will be available from late June 2011. 19 – 30 October 2011
Festival of Ideas Join us at the 4th Cambridge Festival of Ideas, which celebrates the arts, humanities and social sciences through talks, performances, film screenings, hands on activities and workshops to suit all ages. Further details and a programme will be available from July 2011.
Cambridge in the Community Directory The Cambridge in the Community Resource Directory is a useful tool for you to find more about the activities run by the University of Cambridge and the University museums, in which you can get involved. Schools, colleges, community organisations and the public can browse through what’s on offer for them. http://webservices.admin.cam.ac.uk/outreach
What’s On at the University of Cambridge The best way to find out about future events at the University is to visit the What’s On website which lists all of the up-and-coming activities, from family events to adult lectures. To subscribe to our monthly email newsletter: www.cam.ac.uk/whatson For more information on any of the above visit: www.cam.ac.uk/communityaffairs www.facebook.com/cambridgesciencefestival www.twitter.com/camscience
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