Residents are invited to enjoy a drink while learning about some of the fascinating work and research undertaken by experts at the University of Worcester during a series of events at local pubs.
Some University of Worcester staff involved in the Pint of Science festival, either organising or giving a talk, holding special Pint of Science glasses, photographed at the Arch Rivals pub
The Pint of Science festival is returning to Worcester when academics from the University will talk on a wide variety of topics, covering everything from climate change to counselling psychology, at City venues. Organised by Dr Charlotte Taylor, Esther Dobson and Robyn Platt from the University’s Research School, talks include a behind the scenes insight into crime scenes and forensic work, using drones to help prevent flooding and how blackcurrants can be used as a supplement in sport nutrition.
Dr Taylor said: “We are incredibly excited to bring Pint of Science back to Worcester. No matter what your interests, we hope there is something in this year’s programme that sparks people’s imagination or gives them a chance to learn something new. It is really important to share and recognise some of the ground-breaking research that our colleagues are doing, not just with the academic community, but with the wider public to show how universities can and are making a difference to health, the environment and numerous other fields.”
Events take place each evening from May 22 to May 24 at The Paul Pry pub, in The Butts, and The Arch Rivals pub, at Netherton Court, with two talks most evenings running from 7.30pm. Sessions are pitched at a general public audience.
The University first got involved in Pint of Science, an international initiative that aims to bring researchers and academics from universities across the UK, Europe and globally into local venues to share their work, back in 2019. Universities across the country are involved.
Each evening’s talks are based around themes. The Arch Rivals hosts an evening titled ‘Challenging Climate Change’ on May 22. The first presentation will look at how photos taken by drones and satellites can help monitor the effects of climate change and other man-made pressures on the environment. The second talk will look at the role of psychology in encouraging more environmentally friendly behaviour.
On May 23, pub visitors can learn about ‘Innovations in Natural Flood Management’, with a talk looking at how drones and modelling data can help find the most effective natural flood management techniques for different areas. The second talk is on how research in Nepal is helping to develop a system to better manage natural disasters.
Then on May 24 The Arch Rivals hosts sessions on ‘Psychology, Social Science and Medical Education’. These will look at the psychology behind people who identify themselves as having an allergy to something, and then at the psychology of stress and why some people thrive off it and others don’t.
Meanwhile at The Paul Pry, on the first evening (May 22) one lecturer looks at current research into potential medical uses of cannabis and another at Freudian theories in the context of intrusive thoughts. The second evening (May 23) focuses on ‘Strength and Nutrition’. Opening the evening is a talk is on the use of the humble blackcurrant as a supplement in sports training, performance and recovery. The second speaker focuses on research around handgrip strength as a predictor of survival in men suffering with liver disease. The final event, on May 24, will feature a Forensic Science lecturer talking about her 20 years’ experience on crime scenes and taking attendees behind the scenes of a crime scene investigation.
Tickets are £5 and can be booked via the Pint of Science website.