02 March 2010
Universities host a week of scientific discovery
Sheffield's two universities are joining forces once again to demonstrate to the public the fascinating world of science and technology, as part of National Science and Engineering Week (12- 21 March 2010).
The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University will stage a series of events for the week, which is organised by the regional committee of the British Science Association. South Yorkshire's programme is one of the largest in the UK, with more than 350 events taking place throughout the week.
The programme includes a series of lectures, exhibitions and hands-on activities designed to bring members of the general public, schools and colleges into contact with inspiring displays of science and technology.
University of Sheffield academics are involved in a range of events, including the David Allen Booth Memorial Lecture on 'Shapes and Patterns' by Professor Gillian Gehring OBE of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Sheffield.
The event, which will take place on Friday 12 March at Sheffield Hallam University, will dazzle visitors with colour changing chemical demonstrations, to help explain the mechanism that produces zebra stripes and leopard spots.
Events at Sheffield Hallam University include a lecture by staff and students from the Mechanical Engineering Department, which will give the audience simple tips for reducing energy bills and saving money. It will challenge the audience to think about how far they are willing to go to reduce their carbon footprint and what impact energy shortages might have on their lives. This event takes place on Thursday 18 March at the University's Adsetts Lecture theatre.
Professor Charles Stirling from the University of Sheffield's Department of Chemistry and Chair of the local British Science Association, said: "A very important aspect of the programme for National Science and Engineering Week is the huge outreach to both primary and secondary schools, not only by the two Universities but also by the Museums, industry and commerce. The event gives many thousands of people the chance to get involved in a wide range of talks and activities spanning mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology and engineering, allowing them to embrace the thrill of looking at life's interesting questions from a scientific and engineering perspective."
Dr Richard Walton, reader in education at Sheffield Hallam University and Director of STEMPOINT, who are coordinating the events, said: "National Science and Engineering Week is a national celebration of the very best of British research and innovation. Once again South Yorkshire's programme is one of the largest in the country and is sure to an excellent opportunity for people to learn new and exciting things about science and technology. We are very grateful for the efforts made by the large team of volunteers who consistently provide exciting and stimulating events for children and the public." Notes for Editors: For a full programme of events and ticket information visit the link below.
National Science and Engineering Week is coordinated by the British Science Association and funded by the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) in partnership with Engineering Technology Board (ETB). It aims to celebrate science and its importance to everyday life, providing an opportunity for people of all ages across the UK to take part in science, engineering and technology activities.
For further information please contact: Shemina Davis, Media Relations Officer, on 0114 2225339 or email shemina.davis@sheffield.ac.uk or Tess Humphrys, Sheffield Hallam University, on 0114 225 4025 or email t.humphrys@shu.ac.uk
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