Glasgow Science Festival 2013

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Dead Sleazy 06 June

A deliciously dark evening of comedy, film and hard zombie science.

The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 06-16 June

All aboard for wide variety of inspiring science and art events. A must for all explorers, young and old.

FESTIVAL TS H GHLIGH Science Sunday at the University of Glasgow 9 June

Shortcut into the world of research with science shows (live bird-of-prey!), workshops, equipment and almost endless opportunities to get hands-on. A cracking day out for all the family.

The Scottish Big Bang Fair 14 June

Where your classroom meets cool careers: a must-see for Scottish schools. Featuring shows, workshops, hands-on from local companies with an incredible showcase of school STEM clubs.

Connecting Parents to Paediatrics 06 June

Practical advice for people with young families. Join us for a coffee and the opportunity chat with Paediatric experts from across Europe. Children welcome.

Tasty Science: Know Your Whisky 07 June

From malts to mass spectrometry, this is a whisky tasting like no other! Enjoy a delicious blend of whisky and science, with live demonstrations and samples.

Bright Club Meets Glasgow Skeptics: Festival Special 10 June

Enjoy an evening of stand-up comedy and top science. Featuring Glasgow’s funniest academics, Simon Watt (Channel 4’s ‘Inside Nature’s Giants’) and geeky songstress Helen Arney.

Elementary: CERN and Scotland 14-16 June

Celebrate the Higgs boson discovery and Scotland’s work at CERN with a weekend of hands-on exhibition activities, workshops and talks.


DISCOVER SCIENCE IN A DEAR GREEN PLACE... GLASGOW, NATURALLY. Now in its seventh year, Glasgow Science Festival is an established part of every weegie’s cultural calendar. This year promises to be the biggest yet, with a veritable feast of science-infused events in over 30 venues across the city. From 6-16th June, explore everything from astrophysics to zoology through cinema, live comedy, exhibitions and handson activities. To celebrate 2013’s theme of ‘Glasgow, Naturally’, we’re hosting a series of special events to help satisfy your curiosity for the natural world. Highlights include meeting birds of prey at the University of Glasgow’s ‘Zoofest’ and the ‘floating laboratory’ on the Forth & Clyde canal – jump aboard for a voyage of discovery!

PROGRAMME CONTENTS Festival Highlights 2 Introduction 3 Festival Diary 4-5 Festival Map 6-7 All Ages 8-11 Adult 12-15 Schools 16-19 Competition 20

From the brilliant to the dead brilliant, don’t miss the chance to pick up zombie apocalypse survivor tips from the best brains in epidemiology and ‘Zombiology’. And test your own grey matter at our annual Big Science Pub Quiz. Whatever your age or interests, this is a unique opportunity to discover science in the city. Flip through this programme and be inspired! DR. DEBORAH MCNEILL FESTIVAL DIRECTOR With sincere thanks to our headline sponsors

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FESTIVAL DIARY THURSDAY 06 JUNE

SATURDAY 08 JUNE

MONDAY 10 JUNE

01 Water at the Heart of Science 02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 04 MAKLAB: Design, Build, Create 05 Cosmic Way 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 45 Water at the Heart of Science 46 Whitelee Windfarm: Schools Programme 47 The Human Body in Action 48 Glasgow Science Centre Schools Programme 23 Connecting Parents to Paediatrics 24 Best of the West: Meet the Ladies 25 From Corneas to Kidneys: Organ Transplantation, its History, Ethics and Art 26 Dead Sleazy

01 Water at the Heart of Science 02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 05 Cosmic Way 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 09 Baron’s Haugh 30th Anniversary Celebration 10 Whitelee Windfarm Science Special 04 MAKLAB: Design, Build, Create 11 Open Day at the Fairfield Farmhouse Trust 28 Genetics: Past, Present and Future 12 Science on the Streets

51 Beavers at Home 01 Water at the Heart of Science 02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 04 MAKLAB: Design, Build, Create 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 45 Water at the Heart of Science 46 Whitelee Windfarm: Schools Programme 48 Glasgow Science Centre Schools Programme 49 A Look at Optometrists: Seeing is Believing 52 Product Design Engineering Taster: Design and Build 53 Mathematics and Statistics Taster: Exploring the World 54 Teaching biodiversity with Beavers, -CPD, Scottish Beaver Trial 29 Cafe Scientifique: Festival Special 30 Bright Club Meets Glasgow Skeptics: Festival Special

SUNDAY 09 JUNE FRIDAY 07 JUNE 01 Water at the Heart of Science 02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 04 MAKLAB: Design, Build, Create 05 Cosmic Way 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 45 Water at the Heart of Science 46 Whitelee Windfarm: Schools Programme 47 The Human Body in Action 48 Glasgow Science Centre Schools Programme 49 A Look at Optometrists: Seeing is Believing 50 Chemistry Taster: CSI River City 08 University of Strathclyde Research Day 27 Tasty Science: Know Your Whisky

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02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 10 Whitelee Windfarm Science Special 13 Science Sunday at the University of Glasgow 14 Zoo-Fest at the University of Glasgow 05 Cosmic Way 15 Alexander Wilson: A Walk with Scotland’s Forgotten Birdman

TUEDSAY 11 JUNE 01 Water at the Heart of Science 02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 04 MAKLAB: Design, Build, Create 05 Cosmic Way 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 45 Water at the Heart of Science 46 Whitelee Windfarm: Schools Programme 47 The Human Body in Action 48 Glasgow Science Centre Schools Programme 49 A Look at Optometrists: Seeing is Believing 56 Plants, Life, People 55 Genetics Taster: Blame Your Parents 57 Elementary: CERN and Scotland: Particle Physics Masterclass 31 Science Communication and the Media: Careers Q&A 58 3ML: 3 Minute Learning CPD for English Teachers 32 Bright Club Comedy Workshop 33 Why We Die 34 Voice of an Angle


WEDNESDAY 12 JUNE

FRIDAY 14 JUNE

SUNDAY 16 JUNE

01 Water at the Heart of Science 02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 04 MAKLAB: Design, Build, Create 05 Cosmic Way 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 45 Water at the Heart of Science 46 Whitelee Windfarm: Schools Programme 47 The Human Body in Action 48 Glasgow Science Centre Schools Programme 59 The Earth through Microscopic Vision 16 Behind the Scenes at Glasgow Museums 60 The Big Teachmeet: Festival Special 35 Life Drawing: Under the Skin 36 Tasty Science: The Art of Coffee 15 Alexander Wilson: A Walk with Scotland’s Forgotten Birdman 37 Life Among Feathers 38 Celebrate Scinema: Viewers’ Choice

64 The Scottish Big Bang Fair 65 Microbiology Taster: Disease Detective 01 Water at the Heart of Science 02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 04 MAKLAB: Design, Build, Create 05 Cosmic Way 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 45 Water at the Heart of Science 46 Whitelee Windfarm: Schools Programme 48 Glasgow Science Centre Schools Programme 55 Genetics Taster: Blame Your Parents 66 Medieval Science in Bothwell Castle 67 Natives, aliens and re-introductions 17 Alexander Wilson: Paisley’s Poet, America’s Ornithologist 41 Elementary: CERN and Scotland 42 Alexander Wilson: Local Hero 43 Philip Dee Memorial Lecture: The Large Hadron Collider and the Higgs Boson

02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 10 Whitelee Windfarm Science Special 41 Elementary: CERN and Scotland 05 Cosmic Way 22 Once Upon... Today 20 Glasgow, Naturally 21 Dear Green Places: Glasgow’s ‘Parklife’ 17 Alexander Wilson: Paisley’s Poet, America’s Ornithologist

THURSDAY 13 JUNE 61 CoderDojo - Computer Programming 01 Water at the Heart of Science 02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 04 MAKLAB: Design, Build, Create 05 Cosmic Way 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 45 Water at the Heart of Science 46 Whitelee Windfarm: Schools Programme 48 Glasgow Science Centre Schools Programme 62 Engineering Taster: Shaping the World 63 Using and Losing Bugs 39 Royal Philosophical Society of Glasgow: Soddy Lecture 40 Big Science Pub Quiz

SATURDAY 15 JUNE 01 Water at the Heart of Science 02 21st Century Plant Science 03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory 05 Cosmic Way 06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks 07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show 10 Whitelee Windfarm Science Special 18 Festival of Frogs 41 Elementary: CERN and Scotland 04 MAKLAB: Design, Build, Create 15 Alexander Wilson: A Walk with Scotland’s Forgotten Birdman 17 Alexander Wilson: Paisley’s Poet, America’s Ornithologist 19 Geek Walk 20 Glasgow, Naturally 21 Dear Green Places: Glasgow’s ‘Parklife’ 44 Taking Ashes into Orbit

UP & COMING EVENTS A An Evening with NASA B Medical Research Council Centenary Open Week C Natives, aliens and re-introductions D Ask an Astronaut: GLOW Meet For more information about up & coming events, including dates, times and venues, please visit glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

DIARY KEY 01 to 22 All Ages 23 to 44 Adult Events 45 to 67 School Events

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ALL AGES 01 Water at the Heart of Science

04 MAKLAB: Design, Build, Create

This richly illustrated bilingual French-English exhibition presents some of the major projects in French water research giving an insight into the key role that research plays in the sustainable management of water as a vital, indispensable resource. With a documentary by Yann Arthus-Bertrand. Alliance Française de Glasgow, Park Circus 06-16 June (excl Sundays) Mon -Thur, 10:00-21:00 Fri, 10:00-16:00 Sat, 10:00-13:00 Drop-in

Drop in to MAKLAB, Scotland’s first open-access digital fabrication studio. Rub shoulders with a new generation of innovative makers who are engineering everything from furniture design to optical electronics and building design. With events and workshops throughout the festival. The Lighthouse, Mitchell Lane 06-16 June (excl Sundays) Mon-Fri, 10:00-17:00 Sat, 11:00-16:00 Drop-in Workshop details at glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

02 21st Century Plant Science What do ash dieback, rising food prices, and climate change have in common? These are just some of the global challenges being tackled by University of Glasgow plant scientists and others and explored in this brand new exhibition. Glasgow Botanic Gardens, Kibble Palace 06-16 June, 10:00-18:00 Drop-in

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03 The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory Returning home from some of the most isolated territories on the planet and stopping in Glasgow for the science festival before continuing on a Scotland-wide journey from June to September. Come and visit The Clipperton Project’s Floating Laboratory on the canal at Applecross Street as well as various other locations around Glasgow. Featuring a wide variety of inspiring events, this is a must for all explorers, young and old. In partnership with Glasgow Science Festival and the Scottish Waterways Trust. Scottish Canals, Canal House, 1 Applecross Street, Forth & Clyde Canal 06 -16 June, Various times BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

05 Cosmic Way Focussing on CTR Wilson’s work on Ben Nevis and in Peebles, this exhibition unravels the history of our understanding of cosmic rays - radiation from the far cosmos - and the connections between phenomena on the Sun, cosmic rays and the Northern Lights. Hunterian Art Gallery 06-16 June (excl Mondays) Tues - Sat, 10:00-17:00 Sun, 11:00-16:00 Drop-in


06 Glasgow Science Centre: BodyWorks Find out how your body works in GSC’s latest exhibition. Take on the role of the snot barrier, burn some energy in the giant hamster wheel, perform a virtual autopsy and bust some moves at the DNA disco. By discovering the science behind health and well-being, you will never look at your body in quite the same way. Glasgow Science Centre 06 - 16 June, 10:00-17:00 Drop-in Included with admission to science mall Adults £9:95 Child/Conc £7.95 for admission to the Science Mall – which includes workshops Meet the Expert and Science Show Theatre. Planetarium: £2.50 supplement per person IMAX Science Film: £2.50 supplement per person

07 Glasgow Science Centre on Show Discover three floors of interactive science exhibits, games, illusions and experiences, including our new BodyWorks exhibition, the ‘Be Creative’ zone and the spectacular planetarium and IMAX Cinema. You can meet the experts while exploring the science behind the lives we lead today. Enjoy live shows, learn startling stuff in our workshops and see the world in a whole new light. Glasgow Science Centre 06-16 June, 10:00-17:00 Drop-in Adults £9:95 Child/Conc £7.95 for admission to the Science Mall – which includes workshops. Meet the Expert and Science Show Theatre. Planetarium £2.50 supplement per person IMAX Science Film £2.50 supplement per person 08 University of Strathclyde Research Day Come along and learn about the current research being conducted at the University of Strathclyde. Featuring a Dragons’ Den style event where University researchers pitch for research funding and many more activities. University of Strathclyde 07 June, 12:30-16:30 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

09 Baron’s Haugh 30th Anniversary Celebration Come along and celebrate 30 years of Baron’s Haugh as a RSPB reserve. Help support the RSPB’s great work in making Baron’s Haugh a great place for wildlife and people by taking part in a sponsored walk in the morning (10am). There will be plenty of exciting wildlifeinspired activities for everyone on offer from 2pm. Events begin at the reserve car park at the end of Manse Road in Motherwell 08 June Walk: 10:00 Activities: 14:00-16:00 Drop-in for activities. Book walk via RSPB warden on 07872 814911 or 0141 331 0993, or by email baronshaugh@rspb.org.uk 10 Whitelee Windfarm Science Special Welcome to Whitelee where you can visit the renewable power exhibition and walk through the windfarm. Take a trip on an electric bus, join in workshops to build your own land yacht, experiment with turbine design or explore the many curious and useful things we’ve learned from wildlife and nature. Whitelee Windfarm Visitor Centre, Eaglesham Moor 08, 09, 15, 16 June, 10:00-17:00 CALL TO BOOK 0141 568 5480 www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk P9


ALL AGES 11 Open Day at the Fairfield Farmhouse Trust

13 Science Sunday at the University of Glasgow

15 Alexander Wilson: A Walk with Scotland’s Forgotten Birdman

Fairfield Farmhouse rests within Govan’s community garden and is one of the area’s oldest buildings. After lying derelict for 25 years this listed building is being developed by the community. Celebrate its renovation through a day of gardening, science, engineering and architectural activities for all the family. In partnership with Glasgow Science Festival. Fairfield Farmhouse, Elder Park, Govan 08 June, 12:00-16:00 Drop-in

Welcome to the 7th annual Science Sunday extravaganza at the University of Glasgow. Our staff and students have devised a whirl of activities to shortcut you into the vast range of world-class research happening right here on campus. You’ll find science shows, workshops, equipment and almost endless opportunities to get handson. There’s a special opening of the Hunterian Zoology Museum to celebrate all things birdy - don’t miss out on the live bird-of-prey show! All brought to you by the Glasgow Science Festival team and our specially invited guests. University of Glasgow, Hunter Halls 09 June 10:00-16:00 Drop-in

Join the founder of the science of ornithology and renaissance man Alexander Wilson (1766-1813) on the 200th anniversary of his death to explore beautiful RSPB Lochwinnoch. We’ll hear stories of his life in the area and his influence today. Can’t wait until then? Help Bioblitz Lochwinnoch on Sat 1st June. Visit www.rspb. org.uk for more info. Meet RSPB Lochwinnoch Visitor Centre 09 June, 11:00-13:00 12 June, 19:00-21:00 15 June, 11:00-13:00 CALL TO BOOK 01505 842 663 £1 for RSPB members and £4 non-members

12 Science on the Streets Join Dr Carol Trager-Cowan, University of Strathclyde, on a tour to uncover some of the strange history of science and engineering on the everyday streets of Glasgow. Find out how two Glasgow scientists attempted to bring an executed murderer back to life using electricity. See the ‘tape measure’ in George Square and discover how a brainwave on Glasgow Green enabled James Watt to kickstart the Industrial Revolution. 11 George Square, Tourist Information Office 08 June, 14:00-15:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

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14 Zoo-Fest at the University of Glasgow The Zoology Museum is specially open for Science Sunday! This year’s ‘Zoofest’ is all about birds, inspired by celebrating the 200th anniversary of the death of Paisley born ornithological hero Alexander Wilson. Birdy treats on offer include family friendly demos on bird ecology and evolution, a ‘buildyour-own-nest’ activity, bird-ofprey show and bird stalls. University of Glasgow, Graham Kerr Building 09 June, 11:00-16:00 Drop-in

16 Behind the Scenes at Glasgow Museums Museums are important not just for recreation and learning but also for science. Glasgow’s natural history collections are regularly consulted by scientists for research. Find out how they are used in this special tour for the festival. 12 June, 14:30-15:30 Glasgow Museums Resource Centre, 200 Woodhead Road, South Nitshill Industrial Estate. EMAIL TO BOOK gmrcbookings@glasgowlife.org.uk


17 Alexander Wilson: Paisley’s Poet, America’s Ornithologist One of Paisley’s most famous sons, this exhibition will display aspects of Wilson’s life in Paisley as well as exhibiting his work in the American Ornithology volumes and highlighting his outstanding contribution to the science of ornithology. Paisley Museum 14 June Onwards Tue - Sat, 11:00 - 16:00, Sun, 14:00 - 16:00 Public holidays, 11:00 - 16:00 Drop-in

19 Geek Walk Join Dr Nina Baker, University of Strathclyde, for a guided geek-walk around central Glasgow. Your eyes will be opened to many items which highlight the importance of engineering for the city. Who is represented by the most statues? Where can you see babies making money? Sponsored by IESIS and Glasgow City Marketing Bureau. City Chambers, George Square 15 June, 11:00-11:30 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

18 Festival of Frogs Join us for a ‘Festival of Frogs’ right in the heart of Glasgow! Conservation charity Froglife will be running pond dipping sessions, frog games and treasure hunts for young explorers, as well as ‘pond doctor’ Q&A sessions for adults in need of some pond advice. Festival Park, Pacific Drive 15 June, 10:00-15:00 Drop-in

20 Glasgow, Naturally Glasgow Science Festival celebrates this year’s ‘Glasgow, Naturally’ theme with a weekend of nature-inspired activities at Kelvingrove Museum. Peer into rainbows by building your own spectroscope and explore the natural world with experts from the University of Strathclyde, University of Glasgow, RSPB and others. Enter your best science-themed cake in the Big Science Bake Off competition and share your favourite photographs and memories of Glasgow parks in the ‘Parklife’ exhibition. Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery 15 & 16 June, 13:30-16:30 Drop-in

21 Dear Green Places: Glasgow’s ‘Parklife’ From the Winter Gardens to Kelvingrove, Glasgow’s parks foster fond memories for many a ‘weegie’. Glasgow Science Festival invites you to celebrate our dear green places by submitting a photograph which encapsulates your love for Glasgow’s ‘Parklife’ and the story or memory behind it. The top images will be exhibited at Kelvingrove Museum as part of ‘Glasgow, Naturally’, with prizes for the top entries. See page 20 for entry details. Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery 15 & 16 June, 13:30-16:30 Drop-in 22 Once Upon... Today Come along to hear tales of Scottish nature, culture and history by the River Kelvin and see for yourself the inspiring story of the local community gardens. Take part in green fingered activities and share your story with us. Woodlands Community Gardens 16 June, 11:00-15:00 Drop-in www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk P11


ADULT 23 Connecting Parents to Paediatrics Practical advice for people with young families. In June, Glasgow will be home to the Europaediatrics conference, bringing together 3000 specialists in the latest practical paediatric science from across Europe. Glasgow Science Festival has teamed up with the organisers to offer unique access to this expertise. Join us for a coffee, share knowledge and ask the questions you’ve always wanted to ask. Sponsored by Glasgow City Marketing Bureau. Offshore, Gibson Street 06 June, 14:00-15:30 BOOK ONLINE: glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk 24 Best of the West: Meet the Ladies Glasgow Science Festival presents a special event at Glasgow’s City Chambers to celebrate the fantastic achievements of women working in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine across the city. Come and be inspired by researchers from the Glasgow Caledonian University, University of Strathclyde, University of Glasgow and industry. Powered by ‘PechaKucha’, the internationallyacclaimed and virally popular format, they present their ideas through rapid-fire presentations. Finish off the night by raising your glass to women in science at our networking drinks reception. Glasgow City Chambers 06 June, 18:00-20:30 BOOK ONLINE: glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk P12

25 From Corneas to Kidneys: Organ Transplantation, its History, Ethics and Art Join us for a symposium exploring the history of organ transplantation, including the Glasgow input. Speakers will be Mr David Hamilton, retired transplant surgeon, Professor Stephen Wigmore, University of Edinburgh and Dr Maureen Park, University of Glasgow. Refreshments included. Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow 06 June, 18:00-21:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk 26 Dead Sleazy Glasgow Science Festival presents ‘Dead Sleazy’, a deliciously dark evening of comedy, film and hard zombie science. Join our resident Zombiologist as he delivers an interactive survivor’s guide to a Zombie apocalypse, followed by a Q&A with Dr Rowland Kao and other University of Glasgow scientists and a screening of zombified cult classic ‘The Evil Dead’. Nice ‘N’ Sleazy, Sauchiehall St. 06 June, 19:30-23:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk £5

ADULTS WITH SOME KNOWLEDGE OR SPECIFIC INTEREST IN THE TOPIC

27 Tasty Science: Know Your Whisky From malts to mass spectrometry, this is a whisky tasting like no other! Enjoy a delicious blend of whisky and science and learn how researchers from the University of Glasgow Polyomics group are using cutting-edge technology to test the chemical make-up of your favourite malts, with live demonstrations and samples. Master blender Rachel Barrie of Morrison Bowmore Distillers will also be on-hand to provide an expert insight into your favourite tipples. In partnership with Glasgow Science Festival. DRAM!, Woodlands Road 07 June, 19:00-21:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk £5


28 Genetics: Past, Present and Future

30 Bright Club Meets Glasgow Skeptics: Festival Special

In 1953 Watson & Crick determined the structure of DNA. Sixty years later there is a Genetics revolution in health, technology and commerce. Join some of the UK’s Geneticists at the University of Glasgow to discuss the significant milestones of Genetics Past, the successes of Genetics Present and the potential of Genetics Future. Co-hosted by the Society of Biology, The Wellcome Trust and Glasgow Genetics. University of Glasgow 08 June, 11:00-16:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk Small cost for lunch

Glasgow Skeptics, Bright Club and Glasgow Science Festival host an evening of standup comedy and top science. To start, Simon Watt (Channel 4’s ‘Inside Nature’s Giants’) discusses the perils of reproduction in ‘Sperm Warfare’. Then Bright Club take over with a science special. Glasgow’s funniest academics try their hand at stand up and geeky songstress Helen Arney headlines. The Admiral Bar, Waterloo St. 10 June, 19:00-23:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk £8

29 Cafe Scientifique: Festival Special All over the world, many species of animals and plants are threatened with extinction. One group of animals seems to be in worse trouble than most: the amphibians. Herpetologist Professor Roger Downie outlines the evidence for amphibian declines and their possible causes. Glasgow Science Festival ‘Glasgow, Naturally’ special. Tron Theatre, Victoria Bar, Chisholm Street 10 June, 19:00-21:00 Drop-in

31 Science Communication and the Media: Careers Q&A Curious about careers in science communication and the media? Science-infused comedian Helen Arney (Festival of the Spoken Nerd), public engagement expert and marine biologist Dr Deborah McNeill (Glasgow Science Festival) and biologistturned-presenter Simon Watt (Channel 4 ‘Inside Nature’s Giants’) answer your questions and offer advice on breaking into this growing field. University of Glasgow 11 June, 12:00-13:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

32 Bright Club Comedy Workshop Calling all researchers! Bright Club is a unique public engagement project in which academics communicate their work using stand-up comedy. Learn how to sharpen your presenting skills and have fun at this training workshop hosted by Helen Arney and Simon Watt. With support from the University of Glasgow, the University of Strathclyde and Glasgow Science Festival. Blackfriars, 36 Bell Street 11 June, 17:00-18:00 glasgowsciencefestival.org.ukResearchers 18+; invite only 33 Why We Die Death might not be certain, though taxes, probably are. In this talk, featuring immortal jelly fish, the world’s slowest bacteria and the trip Darwin took to a séance, biologist Simon Watt delves into the surprising science behind why we die, and what the alternatives might be. Come and satisfy your morbid curiosity. Blackfriars, 36 Bell Street 11 June, 19:00-20:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk £6

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ADULT 34 Voice of an Angle Le Geek, c’est chic! An awardwinning hour of stand-up science, songs and silliness from Geek Songstress, Festival of the Spoken Nerd-ette and purveyor of the finest musical comedy. One of Dave TV’s “Top 10 stand-ups to see in 2011”, Helen brings her latest show from last year’s Edinburgh Fringe to Glasgow Science Festival. Blackfriars, 36 Bell Street 11 June, 21:00-22:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk £6

36 Tasty Science: The Art of Coffee Sweetly roasted or full-bodied and bitter? Find out how the chemical make-up of your coffee is key to its aroma and taste. Take a break and join scientists from the University of Glasgow Polyomics group for live demonstrations, talks and tasty samples. In partnership with Glasgow Science Festival. Artisan Roast, Gibson Street 12 June, 18:30-20:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk £5 37 Life Among Feathers

35 Life Drawing: Under the Skin With unique access to specimens normally hidden away in the store rooms of the Huntarian Zoology Museum, this artist and scientist-led workshop will let you get right under the skin of our life models. University of Glasgow 12 June, 18:00-20:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk P14

Join Professor of Zoology, Edward Burt for a talk and 3D look at creatures that live among and eat feathers on living birds. Explore how birds defend their feathers with coloured pigments. Beware: you may never see colourful birds quite the same again! University of Glasgow, Graham Kerr Building 12 June, 19:00-20:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

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38 Celebrate Scinema: Viewers’ Choice Celebrate Scinema with Glasgow Science Festival! Join us for a screening of a Sci-Fi classic, as voted for by the public. The film will be followed by a Q&A with science boffins from the University of Glasgow. To see your favourite on the big screen, vote on glasgowsciencefestival.org and ‘Make it So’! Blackfriars, 36 Bell Street 12 June, 19:30-22:30 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk £3 39 Royal Philosophical Society of Glasgow: Soddy Lecture

2013 is the centenary of ‘isotope’ first appearing in print, in a letter from Glasgow’s Frederick Soddy. Professor David Sanderson will excavate the archives for the history of isotopes, examine isotopes today, and scan the horizon for their future applications. Sponsored by the Royal Philosophical Society of Glasgow. University of Glasgow, Boyd Orr Building lecture Theatre 1 13 June, 19:00-20:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk


40 Big Science Pub Quiz Not all quizzes are about sport and the movies. Glasgow Science Festival presents a light-hearted quiz all about science, packed with live demonstrations. Don’t worry if science isn’t your strong point – there will be plenty of chances for inspired guesswork! Blackfriars, 36 Bell Street 13 June, 20:00-23:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk 41 Elementary: CERN and Scotland Celebrate the Higgs boson discovery and Scotland’s work at CERN with a weekend of hands-on exhibition activities, workshops and talks. Meet University of Glasgow researchers and build a cloud chamber to see elementary particles for yourself. Exhibition drop-in all day; workshops require advance booking (see website for times). Featuring the Phillip Dee Memorial lecture on Friday, see listing below for more info. University of Glasgow, Wolfson Medical School 14 - 16 June Fri: 16:00-20:00 (17:30 workshop) Sat & Sun: 10:00-16:00 11:00 & 14:00 workshops; 12:30 talk. Exhibition and talks: drop-in; Workshops: BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

42 Alexander Wilson: Local Hero

Join us to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the death of Alexander Wilson, poet, artist and naturalist, with talks by Wilson biographer Jed Burtt plus Gerry Carruthers (Scottish literature), Pat Monaghan (ornithology) and Erma Hermans (art history). Followed by a reception and opening of a new Wilson exhibition in the Hunterian Museum of Zoology. Sponsored by British Ecological Society, Scottish Ornithologists’ Club and University of Glasgow. In partnership with Glasgow Science Festival. University of Glasgow, Graham Kerr Building 14 June, 18:30-21:30 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

43 Philip Dee Memorial Lecture: The Large Hadron Collider and the Higgs Boson Dr Aidan Robson from the University of Glasgow will talk about the largest scientific instrument ever built, and the science and significance of last year’s discovery at CERN of a new particle, thought to be the Higgs boson. University of Glasgow, Kelvin Building Rm 257 14 June, 19:30-21:00 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

Exhibition runs until the 13 September, 09:00-17:00 daily, excluding weekends and public holidays 44 Taking Ashes into Orbit ADULTS WITH SOME KNOWLEDGE OR SPECIFIC INTEREST IN THE TOPIC

Join the Galilean Society for a lively talk by Tom Walkinshaw, creator of Glasgow start-up company Alba Orbital. His aim is to use revolutionary space technology, Cubesats, to allow the public to launch cremated remains into space as part of end-of-life celebrations. Mitchell Library, Stirling Room 15 June, 15:00-16:00 Drop-in www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk P15


SCHOOLS 45 Water at the Heart of Science This richly illustrated bilingual French-English exhibition presents some of the major projects in French water research giving an insight into the key role that research plays in the sustainable management of water as a vital, indispensable resource. With a documentary by Yann ArthusBertrand and workshops for secondary school groups. Alliance Française de Glasgow, Park Circus 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 June Mon - Thur, 10:00-21:00 Fri, 10:00-16:00 CALL TO BOOK 0141 331 4080 OR EMAIL admin@afglasgow.org.uk 46 Whitelee Windfarm: Schools Programme Tour the visitor centre, take a trip on an electric bus around the wind farm and choose one of two workshops. (1) Windworks - investigate the design of wind turbines OR (2) Wind, rain or shine investigate how we use natural resources to generate electricity and explore three renewable energies. Whitelee Windfarm Visitor Centre, Eaglesham Moor 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 June 10:00-12:00; 12:30-14:30 CALL TO BOOK 0141 568 5480 £2 per pupil, min group of 10.

47 The Human Body in Action Experience a journey of discovery through the wonders of the body! Pull a body apart and put it back together again; compare a human skeleton with the skeletons of bats, cats and reptiles; and investigate how your lungs, heart and muscles work, with help from scientists at Glasgow Caledonian University. Glasgow Caledonian University 06, 07, 11, 12 June, 10:30-12:00 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370 48 Glasgow Science Centre Schools Programme A range of science education themes and subjects designed for schools and to cover all age groups from P1 through to S6. Depending on the choices made a visit may consist of live shows, IMAX films, participatory workshops, Lab time and free time to explore the three floors of public exhibit space. All programmed activities are aligned with the Curriculum for Excellence. Glasgow Science Centre, 06, 07, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 June Various times CALL TO BOOK 0141 420 5000; £4 per student for science mall + 1 activity.

www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk | Schools Booking: 0141 330 5370 P16

49 A Look at Optometrists: Seeing is Believing This workshop will test the way you see the world, both the one around you, and the world inside your head. Meet Glasgow Caledonian University scientists to explore how your eyes and brain work together with intriguing tests. Glasgow Caledonian University 07, 10, 11 June, 10:00 - 12:00 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370

50 Chemistry Taster: CSI River City Join staff in the University of Glasgow chemistry labs to make use of CSI Forensics to discover who pinched Penelope the Prized Pooch. After the workshop comes a chance to take part in an interactive lecture-demo. University of Glasgow 07 June, 10:00-12:00 07 June, 12:30-14:30 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370


51 Beavers at Home Join the Scottish Beaver Trial to discover how beavers create wetlands. Using our interactive ‘habitat’ pupils will create a home for beavers and other animals. Through workstations links are discovered between beavers and other wildlife and pupils can try dam-building for themselves. University of Glasgow 10 June, 9:30-11:00 10 June, 11:30-13:00 10 June, 13:15-14:45 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370 52 Product Design Engineering Taster: Design and Build Use your design flair to generate ideas and then translate them into reality at this event which aims to give you a flavour of life on the Product Design Engineering course run by the University of Glasgow and Glasgow School of Art. Pupils will take part in an ideageneration activity and a designand-build challenge, and current undergraduates will talk about the projects they’re working on. Glasgow School of Art, Skaypark Campus 10 June, 10:00 - 12:00 10 June, 12:30 - 14:00 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370

53 Mathematics and Statistics Taster: Exploring the World Join Dr Peter Craigmile and Dr Radostin Simitev at the University of Glasgow for this fun, interactive workshop of mathematical puzzles and games and learn how statistics are used to explore the world around us. University of Glasgow 10 June, 12:00-14:00 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370 54 Teaching biodiversity with Beavers, CPD, Scottish Beaver Trial A cross-curricular CPD training event for primary and secondary teachers. Bring biodiversity into the classroom with a range of curriculum-linked activities. Learn more about the first formal trial reintroduction of a mammal into the wild in Britain. This event includes a training workshop, resource pack and a visit to Zoology Museum. University of Glasgow, Zoology Museum 10 June, 16:00-18:00 Primary & Secondary Teachers CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370

55 Genetics Taster: Blame Your Parents Ever wondered why you look and behave as you do? Your parents provided your genes (nature) and environment (nurture). Join Dr Kevin O’Dell at the University of Glasgow for a discussion and lab session around genetics, inheritance and how it’s all your parents’ fault! University of Glasgow 11, 14 June, 10:00-12:00 11, 14 June, 12:45-14:45 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370

56 Plants, Life, People People interact with plants on a daily basis, often without realising it. Join us to learn more about plants by participating in handson activities including DNA extraction, painting with pigments, and preparing plant cuttings to take home. Kibble Palace, Glasgow Botanic Gardens 11 June, Various times CALL TO BOOK 0141 276 1614

www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk | Schools Booking: 0141 330 5370 P17


SCHOOLS 57 Elementary: CERN and Scotland: Particle Physics Masterclass Experience some of the excitement of research in a rapidly-developing field, with talks and hands-on sessions in particle detection and analysis of real collider data, led by experts working at CERN. For S5 pupils who have just taken Higher Physics. University of Glasgow 11 June, 10:00-15:30 EMAIL TO BOOK masterclass@physics.gla.ac.uk

59 The Earth through Microscopic Vision Join scientists from the School of Geographical and Earth Sciences at the University of Glasgow to explore the many facets of Earth’s history and processes by playing detective with microscopic specimens of microbes, fossils and minerals. 12 June, 10:00-12:00 12 June, 12:30-14:30 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370 60 The Big Teachmeet: Festival Special

58 3ML: 3 Minute Learning CPD for English Teachers 3ML is a new way of tackling literacy across the curriculum that works for all subjects. Pupils engage actively with short texts taken from literature, poetry, history, popular culture and the latest scientific news. Aimed at CfE Level 3 upwards. A Glasgow Science Festival and Real Science initiative. University of Glasgow 11 June, 16:30-18:30 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370

Teachers sharing ideas. When you register, you’ll be invited to volunteer to give a short talk (just 2 or 7 minutes) on something you’ve been discovering in your teaching, or simply turn up to soak up all the enthusiasm and meet lots of other teacher! University of Glasgow, Kelvin Building 12 June, 16:30-18:30 BOOK ONLINE glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk OR CALL 0141 330 5370

www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk | Schools Booking: 0141 330 5370 P18

61 CoderDojo Computer Programming At this special CoderDojo session, you will learn how to design and build your own website or web app using the latest web technologies including HTML5, CSS3 and JavaScript. No previous coding experience is necessary. University of Glasgow 13 June, 9:30-12:30 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370 62 Engineering Taster: Shaping the World Join Professor John Marsh at the University of Glasgow and learn how Engineering has shaped the world around us. Test the structural properties of chocolate, design, build and race your own solar car or build your own electronic bagpipes! University of Glasgow 13 June, 10:00-12:00 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370


63 Using and Losing Bugs This half day show will consist of a presentation by microbiology expert Dr Steven Kelly from the University of the West of Scotland, followed by handson interactive workshops on Using and Losing Bugs. University of the West of Scotland: Hamilton Campus 13 June, 10:00-12:00 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370 64 The Scottish Big Bang Fair Enjoy a highly engaging and interactive showfloor with students showcasing their work, demonstrations by companies about how STEM is used in business and workshops and theatre shows, allowing you to engage handson in all areas of STEM. SECC 14 June, 9:30-16:30 Event details at glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

65 Microbiology Taster: Disease Detective Join Drs Tansy Hammarton & Sonya Taylor for a handson diagnostics lab looking at infectious diseases caused by bacteria, parasites and viruses. Pupils will explore several microbial diseases before trying to diagnose a ‘patient’ by analysing their recent medical history and by performing simple microscopic and biochemical tests on blood or stool samples taken from the patient. University of Glasgow 14 June, 9:45-11:30 14 June, 12:45-14:30 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370 66 Medieval Science in Bothwell Castle Find out how huge castles were built by taking part in the interactive challenges set by our Medieval stone mason. Can you overcome the problems of gravity and friction and make it as a Medieval builder? Bothwell Castle 14 June, 10:00-11:45 14 June, 12:30-14:15 CALL TO BOOK 0141 330 5370

67 Natives, Aliens and re-introductions Join us to view posters prepared by Glasgow school pupils on native, alien and re-introduced species of plants and animals and hear pupils debate which species they think ought to be eliminated from Scotland. Part of the British Ecological Society’s Centenary Festival of Ecology. University of Glasgow 14 June Invited audience only

www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk | Schools Booking: 0141 330 5370 P19


COM PETITION Dear Green Places: Glasgow’s ‘Parklife’

From the Winter Gardens to Kelvingrove, Glasgow’s parks foster fond memories for many a ‘weegie’. Glasgow Science Festival invites you to celebrate our dear green places by submitting a photograph, from past or present, which encapsulates your love for Glasgow’s ‘Parklife’ and the story or memory behind it. The top images will be showcased at Kelvingrove Museum as part of ‘Glasgow, Naturally’ on June 15th and 16th, with prizes for the top entries. UPLOAD PHOTOGRAPHS ON OUR WEBSITE OR POST ENTRIES ON OUR FACEBOOK WALL. COMPETITION DEADLINE 07 JUNE 2013. Further details and full T&C’s at glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk

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