British Science Association Oxford

The Oxford Science and Ideas Festival is coming to Oxford in October. There will be over 100 events happening across the city from 12th to 22nd October. Come and check out the vast number of talks, performances and interactive events covering a range of topics from nutrition to astronomy, computing to  history of science.

We are organising 3 events during the IF festival;

• Big Data exhibition in Frideswide Square – 10th October – 10th November
• Science busking on Broad St – 12th October 12pm-6pm
• Scibar talk – How the Internet is changing our lives: from dating to politics – 17th October 7pm

For further information check out the IF festival website

The Antarctic is our climate change early warning system. Studying climate here allows us to more accurately predict the extent of climate change in the rest of the world. However some of the most critical areas of the Antarctic are still largely inaccessible to scientific exploration. Dr David Jones will discuss his experience designing and deploying sensors over 5 Antarctic expeditions, in order to monitor the effects of global warming on icebergs and glaciers.

Workplace stress feels like a symptom of modern life. However, the impact of mental ill health at work has surfaced in many forms over the years. Learn the truth behind the ‘Mad Hatter’, the ‘writer’s cramp’ and the value of a good night’s sleep. It’s time to dispel the myths about working with a mental condition, and talk about how improve resilience to stress.

Dr Jenny Leeser has worked in occupational health for over 30 years. During this time she has worked in many industries from pharmaceutical to transport, and now focuses on wellness and mental wellbeing at work.

This month our speaker is Professor Peter Atkins, well renowned scientist and author of numerous chemistry textbooks and popular science books.

Peter Atkins’ most recent book (OUP) is “Conjuring the universe: the origins of the laws of nature”. In this talk he will explore why the universe behaves the way it does and argue that it is all down to a combination of indolence, anarchy and ignorance.

 

We are on the lookout for new volunteers to help organise, promote and run our SciBar nights and other events. 

The Oxford Branch are currently looking for enthusiastic, dedicated volunteers to join their committee! This is a perfect opportunity to get involved in organising innovative and exciting events which engage the public with science. The Branch is looking for people who can commit to volunteering for 2 evenings per month. If you’re interested, please use the contact link below. 

As well as running our SciBars, we have developed projects working closely with the local community in Oxford, including a recent project where we organised an activity day for refugee mothers and children.

If you’re interested in volunteering with the Oxford Branch, click here.