International Science Festival to Come to Dublin – TCD to Host Prestigious BA Festival of Science

Posted on: 05 October 2004

Dublin city will be alive with science next September as one of the world’s leading scientific meetings, The BA Festival of Science, will be hosted by Trinity College Dublin, it was announced this evening (Tuesday 5 October). Over 7,000 people will gather to attend public lectures, take part in hands-on activities, observe demonstrations, join in visits or field trips, meet scientists and generally have fun. Organised by the BA (British Association for the Advancement of Science), the Festival will run for one week, from 3 September 2005, and consists of a programme of talks and discussions, workshops and events for schools and a series of highly-accessible Festival in the City events. “During the Festival, over 300 key people from the world of science, engineering and technology will discuss the latest research in their field with the public. The Festival is an excellent opportunity for scientists and the public to connect and talk about their hopes and concerns. It will inspire, engage and challenge visitors of all ages,” said Professor Helen Haste, Chair of the BA, at the launch reception. “This event will play a big part in renewing the interest in science among young people and in showing how science is as much about culture as it is the basis by which we will sustain ourselves economically and environmentally in the future. I am delighted that the BA has decided to bring the Festival to Dublin and to Trinity College,” said the Provost of Trinity College, Dr. John Hegarty. The main Festival programme will consist of 700 public lectures that reveal many of the latest developments in scientific research to a general audience under the themes of: Archaeology, Agriculture & Food, Anthropology, Biological Science, Chemistry, Economics, Education, Engineering, Geography, Geology, General, History of Science, Mathematics, Medical Sciences, Physics & Astronomy, Psychology, Sociology & Social Policy. A programme for primary and secondary school pupils will run in tandem with the main lecture series and it is anticipated that schools nationwide will participate. The Festival of Science in the City is a week of events, all linked to the BA Festival of Science, that will appeal to families, schools, businesses and city visitors alike, with celebrity guest speakers, hands on activities and performances.