Leeds Festival of Science 2014
The Leeds Festival of Science kicks off on 14 March this year. Read about some of the public programme highlights which are open to all, young and old.
The Festival runs from 14 March to 4 April this year and, alongside the sold-out programme of events for schools, the public programme includes something for everyone, scientist or not. Highlights this year include:
Tuesday 18 March - expert panel debate on fracking
A debate on hydraulic fracturing (fracking) for shale gas in the UK; open to all students, staff and members of the public.
Thursday 20 March - the Ig Nobel Show
The Ig Nobel Prizes honour achievements that make people LAUGH, then THINK. Marc Abrahams, founder of the award ceremony, will reveal the stories behind the stories and there will be readings from bizarre but genuine research studies.
Friday 21 March - 'Parliamentary Select Committee' on 'Big Data'
Find out how Parliament examines and influences science policy in the UK. This is your chance to take on the role of a select committee member and quiz eminent scientists on a key issue in science and technology: Big Data. Dr Stephen McGinness, Clerk of the House of Commons Science and Technology committee, will be in the chair.
Wednesday 26 March - Black Holes, White Holes and Worm Holes
Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell will introduce black holes and will answer questions like 'Do they really exist in space?', 'How do we know?', 'What are white holes?' and 'Is travel through a worm hole to another universe possible?'
Friday 28 March - Back to the Future: 100 Years of Cancer Research
An exploration of the fascinating history of cancer research, and a glimpse into the research of the future.
Saturday 29 March - Engineering Experience
Learn about different types of engineering at this fun and interactive event, suitable for all ages.
For full details of these and other Festival events, go to the Leeds Festival of Science Public Programme webpage.
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