Science Festival 2011

Science for lifeFor more information tel: 01223 766766 or visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival

14 – 27 March 2011

Free talksHands on activitiesEvents for all ages

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Thank you

Partner Sponsors

Pye Foundation

Spotlight Sponsors

Cover image: Flame tests created by Dr Peter Wothers and Mark Hudson, photographed by Nathan Pitt. Part of 'The Wothers guide to theperiodic table – group 1, the alkili metals' (page 25)

In Kind Support

Associate Sponsors

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Welcome The Science Festival starts here!

Welcome to the Cambridge Science Festival 2011 which this year has the theme of ‘Science for Life’. Over150 mostly free events will celebrate the ways in which science, technology, engineering and mathematicsare changing our lives.

2011 is the International Year of Chemistry; join us to uncover some colourful science at the ChemistryDepartment’s open day on 19th March, with Dr Peter Wothers, who will have some exciting and loudsurprises! We're also joined by CBBC's gastronutty food adventurer Stefan Gates and Blue Peter's very ownresident scientist Steve Mould! And if this isn't enough for you the Hyde Fundraisers will be bringing lots ofreplica characters from Doctor Who for a two day exhibition as part of their 25th Anniversary celebrations,don't forget to count the shadows if you visit!

An amazing range of evening talks and debates will bring to life the latest in Cambridge research. Lookingfor something different? Check the Festival Fringe on page 36 where you can visit a time-travelling coffeeshop or interpret science through dance.

The programme pages are colour coded to help you find out what's on. Booking is only required wherementioned and unless otherwise stated can be done at www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or by calling 01223 766766.

Pages are colour coded as follows:14 – 27 March Throughout the Festival pages 4 – 9, 30 – 3619 March Science on Saturday Top Talks pages 10 – 1119 March Science on Saturday New Museums Site pages 12 – 1519 March Science on Saturday Downing Site pages 16 – 1719 March Science on Saturday Mill Lane to Lensfield Road pages 18 – 2519 March Science on Saturday Guildhall and the City pages 26 – 2820 March Science on Sunday page 2926 March Science on Saturday 2 pages 37 – 42

Last year's Cambridge Science Festival was our most successful yet with over 35,000 people taking part.With such large numbers of people please do bear with the volunteers and staff helping out, as queues arevery likely and resources are limited. The Festival is hosted in working departments and is run by staff andstudent volunteers, who are all trying to give you the best experience possible, as well as to keep theevents free and open to all.

Please note that children should be accompanied at all times.

Please check our website for the latest updates on events and follow us on:

The cover can be brought to life using an app for smartphones based on research from the MachineIntelligence Lab at the University of Cambridge’s Department of Engineering. Install the Popcode appon your phone, scan the Popcode below using the app and then view the cover to meet the elements.

visit: www.popcode.info/sciencefestival from your phone or PC to find out more

www.facebook.com/cambridgesciencefestival www.twitter.com/camscience

12 March, 10.30am – 12.30pm, 2pm – 4pm Colour and chemistryThe Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington StreetThe Museum collection is full of colour. This course aims to show how the study of art and the science of artconservation are perfect partners by exploring the symbolism, materials and methods of manufacture used tocreate colour through history. Map: 33, Workshop, Ages 14 – 19, Pre book tel: 01223 332904 or email: [email protected]

14 March, 6.30pm – 7.30pmMundane futures: science, technology, and international developmentpolicyMichaelhouse Café, Trinity StreetHow do academics and science journalists inform policymakers, business communities, and the wider publicabout the development potential of techno-scientific innovation? Join David Dickson, Director of Science andDevelopment Network (SciDev.Net), and Cambridge scholar Siddharth Saxena for this informative discussion. Map: 37, Talk, Ages 14+

14 March, 7pm – 8pm Dambusters and the engineering behind thebouncing bombInstitute of Continuing Education, Madingley Hall, Madingley Dr Hugh Hunt (Department of Engineering) explores the engineering behindthe famous bouncing bomb, which was designed in World War II to bounceat a target avoiding obstacles in its path. This lecture is in association withthe Cambridge Society for the Application of Research (CSAR).Map: online, Talk, Ages 18+, Pre book tel: 01223 746212 or visit:www.ice.cam.ac.uk/madingleylectures

14 March, 7.45pm – 8.15pm Why does the universe have structure?Wesley Methodist Church Nave, Christ's Pieces (entrance from Short Street)Existentialist Martin Heidegger rated the question 'Why is there something rather than nothing' as the mostfundamental issue in philosophy. In this talk, Dr Simon Mitton will explore understanding of the origin,evolution, and architecture of the universe.Map: online, Talk, Ages 18+

14, 16, 21, 23 March, 6.30pm – 8.30pmReproduction on film seriesArts Picturehouse Cinema, St Andrew's Street The Reproduction on Film series covers the topic of reproductive dystopias and offers four different films whichexplore this topic, followed by discussion. 14 March: The Stepford Wives, introduced and with discussion led by John Forrester (University of Cambridge). 16 March: Island of Lost Souls and Tomorrow’sChildren, double bill, introduced and with discussion led by Alec Charles (University of Bedfordshire). 21 March: Soylent Green, introduced and with discussion led by Jesse Olszynko-Gryn (University of Cambridge).23 March: Children of Men.Map: 29, Film, Ages 15+, Pre book tel: 0871 902 5720, email:[email protected] or visit: www.picturehouses.co.uk, adults £7.50,concessions £6.50

4 *Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766

Throughout the Festival

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14, 17, 23 March, 1.05pm – 1.55pm My science – my faithMerton Hall Farmhouse, Multi-Faith Chaplaincy Centre Scientists of different faiths give their testimony. 14 March: Nitish Metha, Hindu Economist and friends, 17 March: Abderahmen Zoghbi, Muslim Astrophysicist. 23 March: Rev Dr Rodney Holder, ChristianAstrophysicist. Please check the Festival website for other talks in this series.Map: 45, Talk, Ages 12+, Pre booking recommended tel: 01223 741718, email:[email protected], fair-trade coffee, tea and chocolate will be on sale

14 – 27 March, 8am – 5pm From nano to macro: photographyexhibitionMichaelhouse Café, Trinity StreetFrom hidden engineering on the nano scale to outerspace technology, explore an exhibition of astoundingimages taken by staff and students from the Department of Engineering.Map: 37, Exhibition, Drop in, All ages

14 – 27 March, 9am – 5.30pm (11am – 5pm on Sundays)Charles Darwin Correspondence ProjectexhibitionCambridge University Press Bookshop and Showroom, 1 Trinity StreetExhibition about the work of the Darwin Correspondence Project, which is editing all the known letters writtenby and to Charles Darwin. Volume 18 for 1870 has recently been published by Cambridge University Press.Map: 34, Exhibition, Drop in, Ages 8+

14 – 27 March, 10am – 4.45pm(Exhibition), 21 March, 7pm – 8pm (Talk)Bruce Gernand's codedchimeraMuseum of Zoology, Downing StreetExhibition exploring the relationshipsbetween sculptural form making andbiological morphogenesis throughcomputer modelling. The exhibitionwill be running until 23 April 2011.Artist Bruce Gernand will be giving atalk about his exciting exhibition on21 March at 7pm.Map: 5, Exhibition/Talk, Drop in, All ages

*Pre book visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival or tel: 01223 766766 5


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14 – 27 March, 1pm – 6pm (19, 20, 26, 27 March 10am – 6pm)Molecules at work: aspects of life magnified two million times283 Milton Road, CambridgeModels of molecules are set out in themes representing processes basic to life including principles ofmetabolism, how nutrients supply energy and photosynthesis. Plus a 5-metre model of Escherichia coli andscientific art of molecular illustration. Models made and arrangements devised by Dr Henry Tribe.Map: online, Exhibition, Drop in, Ages 12+

15 March, 6pm – 7pm

Success of the smelliest: pheromones and sexUniversity CentreSponsored by Cambridge University PressMoths, goldfish, snakes and fruit flies all react to pheromones. Get a sniff of the science with Dr Tristram Wyattas he talks through how the behaviour of the animal kingdom is changed by these invisible molecules andwhy the human armpit could be a pheromone factory.Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+

15 March, 6pm – 8pmFilm screening of MementoArts Picturehouse, St Andrew’s StreetLeonard Shelby (Guy Pearce) tracks down the man who raped and murdered his wife, and robbed him of theability to lay down new memories. He can only remember his life in 15 minute segments. Dr Tim Busseyintroduces how Memento was inspired by descriptions of the cognitive abilities of real life amnesic.Map: 29, Film, Ages 15+, Pre book tel: 0871 902 5720 or visit: www.picturehouses.co.uk,adults £8.50, concessions £7.50, Picturehouse members £6.50

15 – 26 March (excluding 20, 21 March), 10am – 4pm Exploration station IIThe Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield RoadExplore frozen Antarctica and the hostile seas of the Arctic through hands onactivities and the collections of the Museum. Explore the polar regions. How will youget kitted out? What will you shelter in? What will you find when you get there?Come and find out at the Museum.Map: 23, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

16 March, 5pm – 6pmIs there a female brain?Woodlegh Seminar Rooms, Strathaird, Lucy CavendishCollege, Lady Margaret RoadPopular culture contends that the brains of men and women differdramatically. Others call this ‘Neurosexism’. Neuroscientists and socialpsychologists evaluate the scientific evidence and its implications in adiscussion led by Melissa Hines, Professor of Psychology, with DrSabine Bahn and Dr Terri Apter. Organised by the Women’s WordFestival, Lucy Cavendish College.Map: online, Talk, Ages 15+, Pre book tel: 01223 332196or email: [email protected]


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16 March, 5pm – 6pmWiSETI annual lectureThe Auditorium Theatre, Robinson College, Grange RoadSponsored by Schlumberger Cambridge ResearchProfessor Sunetra Gupta from Oxford University – scientist, novelist and mother talks about her life and career,highlighting the issues that affect women in science. Map: 41, Talk, Ages 12+, Pre book tel: 01223 760424, email: [email protected]

16 March, 7pm – 8pm The star-crossed stone – the archaeology,mythology and folklore of fossil seaurchinsSedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, Downing StreetPeople have been collecting fossilised sea urchins for at least fourhundred thousand years. Could our fascination with five-pointedstars be traced back to the pattern on these fossils?Palaeontologist Ken McNamara explores how science andmythology can unravel the impact of this on the religion andculture of many ancient societies.Map: 11, Talk, Ages 16+, Pre book*

16 March, 7pm – 9pm Unraveling genome secretsWellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, HinxtonAn opportunity to hear from two of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute’s leading researchers, Dr Nigel Carterand Dr Julian Parkhill, on how the latest sequencing technology enables us to understand more about thegenetic basis of human disease.Map: online, Talk, Ages 16+, Pre book*

16 March, 7.30pm – 9pmScience futuresMurray Edwards College, Huntingdon RoadSponsored by Science AAASScience research funding is hitting lean economic times. With less money should science be led by economicimpact? How will the research landscape change? Join leading experts including former MP Dr Evan Harris andDr David Cleevely of the Centre for Science and Policy among others, to debate how your tax money shouldbe spent. Chaired by Tim Radford (The Guardian). Followed by a reception.Map: online, Talk, Ages 14+

16, 23 March, 7pm – 9pm Public open evenings at the Institute of AstronomyInstitute of Astronomy, Madingley RoadA talk at 7.15pm followed by a public observing session, using both historical and modern telescopes (if theweather is clear). Public observing occurs Wednesdays from 5 January to 23 March, details at:www.ast.cam.ac.uk/publicMap: 44, Talk, Ages 12+



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17 March, 6pm – 7.30pmThe mathematics of jazzRecital Room, West Road Concert HallSponsored by Cambridge University PressJoin Tim Gowers, Professor of Mathematics, as he explores how mathematics can reveal more about thesecrets of jazz’s chords, harmonics and history. With live performance by a jazz trio.Map: 26, Talk, Ages 14+

17 March, 6.30pm – 7.30pmBrains, minds and their connectivityBabbage Lecture Theatre, New Museums Site What's so special about the human brain network? Weoften think that the brain is uniquely complex in its design.But is it? What can computers and social networking sites(such as Facebook) tell us about the brain? In this lecture,Ed Bullmore (Department of Psychiatry) will explore thenetwork organisation of the human brain and theimplications for disorders including schizophrenia.Map: 2, Talk, Ages 16+

17 March, 7pm – 8.30pmComputers, mobiles and the internet:can they make a difference to thelives of poor people?Queen’s Building, Emmanuel College, St Andrew’s Street We regularly hear how new technologies are going to transform poor people’s lives. In this talk, Tim Unwin,University of London takes a critical look at the evidence for how new technologies impact on poverty. Visit:www.humanitariancentre.org/ict4dMap: 31, Talk, Ages 14+

18 March, 5pm – 6pm Andrew Chamblin memorial lecture: the hidden realityBabbage Lecture TheatrePhysicist Brian Greene, author of The Elegant Universe, returns with The Hidden Reality: Parallel Worlds’and the DeepLaws of the Cosmos. Discover how mathematics can reveal the secret of our universe from the many worlds theoryto holograms.Map: 2, Talk, Ages 14+, Pre book*

18 March, 6pm – 8pm Galileo’s Battle for the HeavensItalian Cultural Centre, La Dante in Cambridge, 60 Hills Road This film presents Galileo as a heroic figure who challenged the status quo. A man whose guide was fact andexperiment, not inherited wisdom; the father of modern science. Map: online, Film, All ages, Pre book tel: 01223 315191/ 07887 606227, email: [email protected] or visit: www.ladante-in-cambridge.org, £3

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18 March, 7.30pm – 8.30pmWhy are we not all fat?Babbage Lecture TheatreSponsored by TTP

The last 50 years represent the first time in history in which the developedworld have had access to abundant calories, so it’s unsurprising that obesity iscommon. What’s more puzzling is that there are still lots of lean people.Professor Stephen O’ Rahilly explains fundamental biological processes thatregulate energy balance and how these interacted with evolutionary forcesover many millennia.Map: 2, Talk, Ages 14+, Pre book*

18, 19, 20 March, 12noon – 9pmInvisible dust Jesus Green Swimming PoolHow do we explore environmental problems such as air pollution when it disappears into the sky? Paris artistsHehe and Eastern region Liz Ballard (artists in residence at the School of Environmental Sciences, UEA) havecreated installations, performances and projections by day and after dark. Curator Alice Sharp. Map: 38, Exhibition, Drop in, All ages

18, 19 March, 6.30pm – 8pm, 8pm – 9.30pm Inside an unquiet mind bySqueaky GateNew Cellars, Pembroke CollegeAn exploration of mental health from allperspectives through music, drama and creativepresentation from Squeaky Gate, in associationwith Cambridge Neuroscience. Set in a day roomof a psychiatric hospital, audience members areinvited to join 'patients' for an interactive TVshow with a difference. Psychotic cocktails willbe served. Warning: this show may challengestereotypes.Map: 35, Performance, Ages 12+, Pre book visit:www.squeakygate.org.uk, adults £8, concessions £4

19 March, 10am – 5pmThe archaeology of communicationWest Stow Anglo-Saxon Village, Ickingham Road, West Stow, Bury St EdmundsInvestigate the archaeology of communication. How loud is an Anglo-Saxon horn? Can you crack the ancientcodes? Explore the First English Village and find out.Map: online, Drop in, All ages, Admission charges apply


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19 March Science on Saturday Top Talks

At the Babbage Lecture Theatre Map: 2, Ages 8+

10.30am – 11.30amPoking the brain with illusionsJoin Blue Peter scientist Steve Mould as he takes you on a magical tour into the world of illusions. Always thoughtillusions were just for your eyes? In this talk Steve will demonstrate how they can affect all your senses and makeyour mind boggle! Packed with spectacular demos and plenty of audience interaction – find out what makespurple peculiar, how can you see sound and what happens in the depths of the cone zone.Pre book*

12noon – 1pm Science JunkieJoin avid adventurers, science junkies and self confessed geeks,Huw James and Greg Foot as they introduce you to the sciencebehind the adrenaline-fuelled world of extreme sports! Withaction packed demos and opportunities to get involved in theshow. See how science isn’t just in labs but out there on thesides of cliffs, in the waves or on the mountain trails. Take awhistle stop tour of adventure sports and the science behindthem and maybe you too will become a Science Junkie!

1.30pm – 2.30pmGastronutsJoin the BBC’s fanatical food adventurer Stefan Gates andchemist Dr Andrea Sella (he’s one clever fella) on agastronomical journey through the science of food. See thescience of sweets, enjoy explosive experiments and delve in toall things delicious. There will be plenty of audienceparticipation, and for the lucky few, the chance to experiencethe legendary bum sandwich! Science doesn't get yummierthan this!Pre book*

3pm – 4pmThe science of Doctor Who: space, time, machine, and monsterAliens and time machines, cyborgs and Daleks, utopias and killer computers. In this talk, Mark Brake and JonChase take you on a journey through the fantastic worlds of Doctor Who, and asks you to consider the question,'Do we live in a science fiction world?’Pre book*

4.30pm – 5.30pmThe echo of creationBillions of years after the event, humans found they could tune their radios into the vast coldness of space to hearthe echo of creation itself. A frozen relic preserved from the young universe which has caused cosmologistselation and puzzlement in equal measure. So hold on to your hats: with help from the audience (and a range ofhouse-hold objects) expert Andrew Pontzen explains the story of cosmology’s greatest asset – and its greatestchallenge – from the start of the twentieth century to a sneak preview of 2012...

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11am – 11.45amThe crisis for cosmologyOne of the most remarkable results of the last few years is the discovery of dark energy whichis causing the expansion of our universe to accelerate towards the infinite future. In addition,our latest theories suggest that our universe is part of a much larger `Multiverse'. Joinastronomer Professor George Efstathiou as he discusses some of the paradoxes associatedwith an infinite number of never ending universes and hint at their possible solutions.

12.15pm – 1pmScience and social mediaWith 10 years experience as a web producer working in film, comedy, technology and science communication,Gia Milinovich has learned a few things about using the web to get your message across. From Twitter to Tumblr,from Facebook to Flickr, Wordpress to Wikis, Podcasts to Vodcasts she will explore how to use them forcommunicating science and, most importantly, how not to use them.

1.30pm – 2.15pmIncredible earsThe ear is an amazing organ that allows us not only to hear but to stand upright as well. Join Dr Phil Cox as heexplores how the ear works and examines its surprising evolutionary origins.Ages 8+

1.30pm – 3.30pmScience research nowCentral Science Library (upstairs)Join leading researchers to get the insights into the latest research. Find out about science and technologybreakthroughs from Cambridge and around the world. Please check our website for full talk schedule.

4pm – 5pmStand up mathematicsComedian and mathematician Matt Parker mixes his two passions with hilarious, statistically accurate results. Asheard on BBC Radio 4's Infinite Monkey Cage, Matt will cover his favourite bits of mathematics before probablygetting really annoyed about homeopathy or something. With no test at the end, this show is for everyone,regardless of your maths ability or level of intoxication! Maths heckles welcome.

In the Arts School Room A Map: 3, Ages 14+

In the Lady Mitchell HallMap: 25, Ages 8+

10.30am – 11.30am, 12noon – 1pm

The science behind KinectLast November, Kinect for Xbox 360 brought the magic of full-body interactive gaming tothe living room. In this dynamic and entertaining talk, Jamie Shotton and Chris Bishopfrom Microsoft Research will give on-stage demonstrations of the amazing new depth-sensing camera, and reveal the science that allows Kinect to track your movements in 3D.Pre book*

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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on at the New

10am – 4pm Improbable thinking Café Does your child ask you strange and magicalquestions about why things are the way they are?Where does the sky end? Why are street lampsyellow? How big is the brain of an ant? To find theanswers to these questions and ask some morecome and visit artists from the Wysing Arts Centre.Submit your questions online at:www.improbablethinking.orgMap: 3, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

10am – 4pm The objects of scienceThe Whipple Museum of the History ofScienceExplore the Whipple Museum's collection andinvestigate how some of our objects work using thehandling trolleys. Come and see our Main Gallerywith its newly refurbished display cases. Map: 8, Hands on/Exhibition, Drop in, Ages 8+

11am – 12noon, 2pm – 3pmGet SETInformation MarqueeFind out what it is like to study science,engineering or technology at the University ofCambridge. Admissions and teaching staff will be available to help prospective applicants,parents and teachers ‘Get SET’ for the future. www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduateMap: 1, Exhibition, Drop in, Ages 14+

Department of MaterialsScience and Metallurgy

9.15am – 10am, 10.45am – 11.30amThe secret life of ice-creamIce-cream is a unique material with amazingproperties. See it under the microscope, learn thescience behind sorbet, discover how to makeperfect ice-cream, and taste our free samples.Talk, Ages 8+, Pre book*

2pm – 5pmSeeK Join SeeK (Science and Engineering Experiments forKids) with some fun hands on science. See howcertain materials can remember and use this tomake coils recoil. Create badges from plastic cups, a kaleidoscope or build the tallest egg tower.Hands on, Drop in, All ages

2pm – 5pmMaterials: me, this, that, all!Understand the science behind materials by makingclouds as well as powering lights with solar-cells andlemons! Superconductivity and nanotechnology willhighlight principles behind the science of life.Hands on, Drop in, Ages 5+

2.30pm – 3pm, 3.30pm – 4pm The new superheroes of physics:superconductors!Have you ever wondered what happens in space, inthe cold regions far away from the stars? See andfeel how metals behave strangely at very lowtemperatures. Talk, Ages 14+

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Museums Site

11.30am – 12.15pm, 1pm – 1.45pm, 2pm –2.45pm, 3pm – 3.45pm, 4pm – 4.45pm CHaOS talks: more from the makersof ‘Crash, bang, squelch!’CHaOS student volunteers will be giving talks coveringbiology, chemistry and physics. The demonstrations inthese talks will be loud, messy and lots of fun! The talkswere very busy in 2010, so arrive earlier in the day if youcan. Spaces are on a first-come, first-served basis. For thelatest details of what is in each talk visit:www.chaosscience.org.ukTalk, All ages

Department of Zoology

Museum of Zoology

11am – 4pmMap of life: repeating patterns inevolutionExplore how distantly related organisms have evolvedamazingly similar solutions to life in their uniqueenvironments. Discover repeated or convergentevolution among gliding animals, desert plants, parasiticmicrobes and much more. www.mapoflife.orgHands on, Drop in, Ages 5+

Amazing animalsExplore the kingdom of animals at the Museum ofZoology. Meet live insects and discover our fantasticcollections from the tiniest flies to the majestic finbackwhale. Hands on activities will be running throughoutthe day, and scientists from the Department of Zoologywill be on hand to answer your creature questions.Hands on, Drop in, All ages

10am – 5pm Crash, bang, squelch!Get to grips with exciting, fascinating and justplain weird experiments that show how someof the world around us works. Enthusiasticstudents from the CHaOS Science Roadshowwill show you what's going on in our fun handson experiments, covering lots of science thatgoes ‘crash’, ‘bang’ and ‘squelch’! During busyperiods there’ll be timed tickets for later in theday – these ran out very early in 2010, so comeearly to avoid disappointment!Hands on, Drop in, All ages

11am – 11.40am, 12noon – 12.40pm, 1pm – 1.40pm, 2pm – 2.40pm, 3pm – 3.40pm Playing with the entrails of afruit flyDescend into the basement of the Departmentof Zoology to see how real scientists are usingthe brains, guts and kidneys of fruit flies to learnmore about how our own body works. We willshow you what these tiny organs look like andhow their function is affected by turningneurons on and off. Discover what we canlearn by watching flies mate or collecting theirdroppings!Hands on, All ages, Pre book*

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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on at the New

Fascinating fatCome along and join in with the University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories to find out fabulousfacts about fat! You will be able take part in hands on activities and games to learn about fat and why it is soimportant for our health.

Medicines under the microscopeJoin the Department of Pharmacology to fish for water fleas (Daphnia) and use amicroscope to see their heart, guts, eye and eggs. Perform Daphnia heart-rate experiments with drugs such as caffeine (coffee and cola), alcohol,nicotine and cold medicines.

Stem cells 'r' us!Have you ever wondered what stem cells are and what they can do?The MRC Centre for Stem Cell Biology present games and activitiesfor all ages to answer all your questions. Come and see what you'remade of.

EPIC mayhem: the nutrition gamesPlay your nutritional cards right; balance the leaning tower of pizza; andenjoy a ‘trolley dash’ through the EPIC supermarket, all whilst learningabout the vital role that specific vitamins and minerals play in our daily life.

The game of life!How does lifestyle impact on health? Visit the MRC Epidemiology Unit to see how genes, dietand physical activity can all affect a person’s health in the game of life.

Living and breathing – how hearts and lungs workJoin staff from Papworth Hospital and have fun learning about your heart and lungs and how they work. Piecetogether our interactive dummy and see how much air is in your lungs. Take part in our heart quiz for a chanceto win a prize and find out about the work of the Hospital and how you could get involved.

Getting to the heart of the matter – calcium signals and healthyageingFind out what makes your heart tick from scientists at the Babraham Institute – everyone knows calcium isneeded for healthy teeth and bones, but did you know calcium is also vital inside cells to regulate heartcontractions?

Are you really what you eat?Join members of MRC Human Nutrition Research and our colleagues from the MRC Biostatistics Unit on theneighbouring stand to see whether you really are what you eat. Step on board our machines to find out whatyour own body’s recipe is and take our blind taste challenge to see if the foods you prefer are related to yourfuture health.

Biology Zonein the Arts School, Large Exam Hall10am – 4pm (unless otherwise stated)Map: 4, Hands on, Drop in, All ages


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Welcome The Science Festival starts here! Museums Site

Everybody makes an antibodyAntibodies are our body’s natural defences against infections and other diseases. Join MedImmune Ltd tobuild your own model of a therapeutic antibody, dress up as a scientist and have your picture taken.

10am – 3pm Society of BiologyCome and try our biology quiz, dissect owl pellets, have a go at mirror tracing, learn about primroses andmuch more. The Society of Biology champions the study and development of biology and provides expertguidance and opinion.

Sponsored by

Biology Zone in the Arts School Rooms B, C and CaféAll events run between 10am – 4pm (unless otherwise stated)Map: 3, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

10am – 2pm

Bottle your genesArts School Room BStudents and staff from local sixth form colleges and the University of Cambridge will help you to isolate yourown DNA, so you can bottle your genes and take them home with you.

Unraveling the scientific spice of lifeWhat makes us human? Just how similar are we to each other and other organisms? How can a genome affectyour health? Join the Bioinformatics Institute and the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute to explore thesequestions and more.

Cancer and lifeArts School Room CCancer develops when cells divide out of control. There are preventable causes of cancer (eg smoking, sunexposure, diet) and non-preventable causes (eg inherited genes). This is why scientists believe that around halfof all cancers could be prevented by lifestyle changes. Come and learn about your cells and cancer, anddiscover some healthy living tips.

How do we get energy out of food?We all know that we need to eat in order to get energy for our activities, but how does this work? The MRCMitochondrial Biology Unit will use LEGO® to show how compartments in human cells make a biological fuelcalled ATP to power the cellular activities.

Cambridge AWiSE at the Science FestivalCaféCambridge AWiSE connects and inspires women and girls to participate in science and enhance their careersin science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Join them for some entertaining hands on experimentsfor all ages. Come along to find out what the network can offer you and speak to some friendly womenscientists about their careers.

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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on at the Dow

10am – 3pmThe cosmos of your bodyDepartment of Pathology Did you know your body hosts millions ofmicrobes? Did you know that millions of proteinsmake your body function? Come and see theminiature world that is your body.Map: 13, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

10am – 4pm Plant powerPlant Sciences MarqueeFrom food and medicines and fuel, to the air webreathe, plants and fungi play a vital role in all ofour lives. Come along and talk to plant scientistsabout the new ways humans are using plantsand fungi, and find out about some of the mostuseful species in these amazing kingdoms.Map: 9, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

10.30am – 3.30pm Time Truck at the SedgwickMuseumSedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences andDepartment of Earth SciencesTravel in time with Time Truck! Investigate rocksand minerals, discover dinosaurs and exploreearthquake science with hands on activities anddemonstrations.Map: 11, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

10.30am – 4pm The science of archaeologyMcDonald Institute for ArchaeologicalResearchLearn how modern science meets ancient relics.Were Neanderthals fussy eaters? Was theskeleton in your cupboard a man or a woman?Science can help archaeologists answer thesequestions and many others. Learn how byenjoying displays and hands on activities todiscover the secrets revealed by pots, plants, soil,bones and even fossilized poo!Map: 10, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

11am – 12noon, 2pm – 3pm(Workshops)2pm – 4pm (Drop in)Rock fluid: shaping memory intransit – a dialogue betweenscience and artDepartment of Experimental PsychologyWhich ‘form’ links matter, perception andmemory? Starting from a memory exercise, thisworkshop will be at the crossroad of psychology,geometry, performance and sculpture. Pleasebring an object which is dear to you.Map: 15, Workshop, Ages 8+, Pre bookemail: [email protected]

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Welcome The Science Festival starts here! ning Site

11am – 3pmScience for life: exploring themindDepartment of Experimental PsychologyCome visit a selection of fun and interactive exhibitsand posters showcasing our latest research.Discover what skills are needed for maths and tryout some cool games that challenge your cognitiveskills. Test how good you are at distinguishing realityfrom imagination and learn why, when it comes tointelligence, crows are feathered apes.Map: 15, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 8+

11am – 3pm Living energyDepartment of BiochemistryDiscover how plants use sunlight to make sugars.Learn how we can use the energy in sugars to makerenewable fuels. This interactive event will includeexperiments, demonstrations, games and sugartasting.Map: 12, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 8+

2pm – 4pmPeople: the amazing self-building, self-operatingmachine!Physiological LaboratoryThis is a series of interactive displays andexperiments looks at many of the most excitingquestions in science: how do people and animals form, function and react?Map: 16, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

12noon – 1pm What do drugs do to thebrain?Department of Physiology,Development and NeuroscienceA lecture on the psychopharmacology ofcognitive enhancement, mental health andaddiction. Professor Trevor Robbins FRSdiscusses his latest research on what drugs doto the brain.Map: 14, Talk, Ages 12+

2pm – 3pm Dyslexia, rhythm and musicDepartment of Physiology,Development and NeuroscienceProfessor Usha Goswami will give a talk ondyslexia, rhythm and music.Map: 14, Talk, Ages 12+

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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on at Mill Lane,

10am – 4pmInvisible Dust environmentalscience and artMill Lane Lecture RoomsWe breathe 20,000 times a day but does it do usgood? Artists and air pollution scientists fromKing’s College will enable you to create ink‘breath’ drawings, make instruments dependenton breath, like kazoos, and uncover the invisible.Invisible Dust involves artists and scientistsworking to explore air pollution, health andclimate change. www.invisibledust.comMap: 19, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

12noon – 4pmHands on maths fairMill Lane Lecture RoomsGames and puzzles for all ages from theUniversity's Millennium Mathematics Project. Pityour wits against the SOMA cube, tangrams,auntie's tea cups or giant dominoes, and sharpenyour strategic reasoning skills!Map: 19, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 5+

1.30pm – 4.30pm One body: a multitude of cellsGurdon Institute, Tennis Court RoadCome along and observe your own cheek cells,prepare some DNA and watch fluorescentworms. Observe the first division of a frog egg,discover the lifestyle of the fly and meet thescientists of the Gurdon Institute.Map: 24, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 5+

9.30am – 10.45am, 11am – 12.15pm,1pm – 2.15pm, 2.30pm – 3.45pm STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire –life is sweet!St Columba Church HallJoin STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire to explore thescience of sweetness! Learn about sugar andtaste, honey and rheology, jelly and bones andhow candy floss has been linked to biomaterials.There will also be talks for all ages.Map: 21, Hands on, Ages 6+, Pre book*

10am – 4pmRocket car derbyUniversity CentreCan you design a rocket car? The Department ofEngineering invites you to design and make yourown rocket car. How far will it travel? Please allowup to 1 hour for construction and testing.Map: 20, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

10am – 4pm Intel: sponsors of tomorrow™University CentreJoin Intel for demonstrations of severalinnovative technologies including multiplayergaming, demos of our latest Intel® Core™processors, home energy monitoring, Google*TV, 3D TV, showing people how to build theirown PCs and much more. Fun for all ages! Map: 20, Hands on, Drop on, All ages

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Welcome The Science Festival starts here! Tennis Court Road and Lensfield Road

19, 20 March10.30am – 4.30pm Doctor Who display by the Hyde FundraisersThe Pitt BuildingJoin the Hyde Fundraisers as they celebrate their 25th Anniversary Year with a special two day exhibitionfeaturing classic characters and replica monsters from the new series of Doctor Who. Join the Judoon,catch up with K-9 and beware the Daleks, face the Vashta Nerada – count the shadows! Alongside thesethere will be plenty of other surprises as well as the chance to discover the science behind key themes inthe show. Geronimo!Map: 18, Exhibition, Drop in, All ages

The Hyde Fundraisers are a voluntary organisation that raises funds for national charities and isnow in its 25th year. Each year they raise funds for two charities, one of which is Children In

Need. Suggested entry donation of £2 adult, £1 children. www.hydefundraisers.com

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19 March Science on Saturday Lensfield Road

Chemistry Zonein the Department of Chemistry, Lensfield Road Supported by the Walters Kundert Charitable Trust

10.30am – 5pmMap: 22, Hands on, Drop in, All agesFor further information on all activities visit: www.openday.ch.cam.ac.ukA map and guide to all the activities in the Department of Chemistry will be available onthe day from the main reception area outside the BMS Lecture Theatre.

get online to answer: C3L6.org

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What bright spark uses this?Start the International Year of Chemistry with a newchallenge!

This new competition is designed to enthuse students interested inchemistry. Set by an experienced team of school teachers and

university lecturers, it will provide a valuable resource for study.

Each month there will be an online chemistry challenge whichanyone can enter, students and teachers alike! If you can solve

all five levels, you will appear on the C3L6 Honours Board.The main competition will take place in schools in June

and is only for Year 12 (Lower 6th) students or below.Students doing well will be sent certificates of

achievement, and those who perform best will winan invitation to a residential camp at the

University of Cambridge at the end of August.

Chemistry in actionHands on activities, demonstrations and games with the students and researchers from the department. Youcan create volcanoes or lava lamps out of common kitchen ingredients. Investigate the properties of ‘dry ice’,piece together your own DNA bracelets and draw an alien using its genetic code.

Royal Society of Chemistry Help celebrate 2011 International Year of Chemistry with a variety of wacky activities on the Royal Society ofChemistry stand and learn more about the Global Experiment.

Climate change: from Cambridge to AntarcticaDisplay by the Centre for Atmospheric Science, British Antarctic Survey, and the Facility forAirborne Atmospheric MeasurementsHave you ever wondered what living in Antarctica is like? Do you know how scientists in Antarctica can helpscientists in Cambridge understand Earth’s climate and how it has changed? To find out more, visit our display!You can learn about volcanoes and local pollution, understand the atmosphere and climate, experiment withstate-of-the-art atmospheric sensors. You can also win a prize by finding the right answers to our atmosphericquestionnaire.

*Pre book tel: 01223 766766 or visit: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival 21

Saturday 19 March pullout: events at a glance

Events open throughout the day, drop in anytime

Time Event Map Type Age page10am – 2pm Bottle your genes 3 Hands on All ages 1510am – 3pm The cosmos of your body 13 Hands on All ages 1610am – 3pm Interactive exhibits: Anglia Ruskin University and the IET 17 Hands on 8+ 26-2710am – 4pm Biology Zone: multiple exhibitors 4 Hands on All ages 14-1510am – 4pm Improbable thinking 3 Hands on All ages 1210am – 4pm The objects of science 8 Hands on 8+ 1210am – 4pm Unraveling the scientific spice of life 3 Hands on All ages 1510am – 4pm Cancer and life 3 Hands on All ages 1510am – 4pm Cambridge AWiSE 3 Hands on All ages 1510am – 4pm Plant power 9 Hands on All ages 1610am – 4pm Rocket car derby 20 Hands on All ages 1810am – 4pm Intel: sponsors of tomorrow TM 20 Hands on All ages 1810am – 4pm Invisible Dust environmental science and art 19 Hands on All ages 1810am – 4pm Big Bang: the life and work of Fred Hoyle 27 Exhibition All ages 2810am – 5pm Crash, bang, squelch! 6 Hands on All ages 1310.30am – 3.30pm Time Truck 11 Hands on All ages 1610.30am – 4pm The science of archaeology 10 Hands on All ages 1610.30am – 4.30pm Doctor Who display by Hyde Fundraisers 18 Exhibition All ages 1910.30am – 5pm Chemistry Zone: open day 22 Hands on All ages 2011am – 3pm Science for life: exploring the mind 15 Hands on 8+ 1711am – 3pm Living energy 12 Hands on 8+ 1711am – 4pm Map of life: repeating patterns of evolution 5 Hands on 5+ 1312noon – 4pm Hands on maths fair 19 Hands on 5+ 1811am – 4pm Amazing animals 5 Hands on All ages 132pm – 4pm Rock fluid: shaping memory in transit 15 Hands on 8+ 162pm – 4pm People: the amazing self-building, self-operating machine! 16 Hands on All ages 172pm – 5pm SeeK 7 Hands on All ages 122pm – 5pm Materials: me, this, that, all! 7 Hands on 5+ 12

Events with specific start times, please arrive on time

Time Event Map Type Age page9.15am – 10am The secret life of ice-cream* 7 Talk 8+ 129.30am – 10.45am STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire – life is sweet!* 21 Hands on 6+ 1810am – 11am Build your own astrolabe* 27 Hands on 12+ 2810.30am – 11.30am Poking the brain with illusions* 2 Theatre Talk 8+ 1010.30am – 11.30am The science behind Kinect 25 Talk 8+ 1110.45am – 11.30am The secret life of ice-cream* 7 Talk 8+ 1211am – 11.40am Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly 6 Hands on All ages 1311am – 11.45am The crisis for cosmology 3 Talk 14+ 1111am – 12noon Get SET 1 Exhibition 14+ 1211am – 12noon Rock fluid: shaping memory in transit* 15 Workshop 8+ 1611am – 12noon The Wothers guide to the periodic table* 22 Talk 8+ 25

22 See map online at: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival

1 Information Marquee2 Babbage Lecture Theatre3 Arts School Rooms A, B, C and Café4 Biology Zone, Large Exam Hall 5 Museum of Zoology6 Department of Zoology7 Department of Materials Science and

Metallurgy8 Whipple Museum of the History of Science9 Plant Sciences Marquee

10 McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research

11 Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences 12 Department of Biochemistry13 Department of Pathology 14 Dept of Physiology, Development and

Neuroscience15 Department of Experimental Psychology16 Physiological Laboratory17 Guildhall 18 The Pitt Building19 Mill Lane Lecture Rooms20 University Centre21 St Columba Church Hall 22 Department of Chemistry23 The Polar Museum24 Gurdon Institute

25 Lady Mitchell Hall26 West Road Concert Hall27 St John’s College 28 Downing College 29 Arts Picturehouse Cinema30 Department of Engineering31 Emmanuel College32 Great St Mary’s Church33 The Fitzwilliam Museum34 Cambridge University Press Bookshop35 Pembroke College Cellars 36 St Catharine's College 37 Michaelhouse Café38 Jesus Green Swimming Pool39 The Open University40 Newnham College41 Robinson College 42 Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical

Sciences43 Centre for Mathematical Sciences44 Institute of Astronomy45 Merton Hall Farmhouse46 The Queen's Veterinary School Hospital47 Microsoft Research48 Cavendish Laboratory 49 Institute for Manufacturing

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See map online at: www.cam.ac.uk/sciencefestival 23

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Time Event Map Type Age page11am – 12noon Good vibrations* 26 Performance 8+ 2711am – 12noon Boots, boxes and books: the life, work and papers of Fred Hoyle 27 Talk 14+ 2811am – 12.15pm STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire – life is sweet!* 21 Hands on 6+ 1811.30am – 12.15pm ChaOS talk 6 Talk All ages 1312noon – 12.40pm Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly* 6 Hands on All ages 1312noon – 1pm Science Junkie 2 Talk 8+ 10 12noon – 1pm The science behind Kinect 25 Talk 8+ 1112noon – 1pm What do drugs do to the brain? 14 Talk 12+ 1712noon – 1pm Build your own astrolabe* 27 Hands on 12+ 2812.15pm – 1pm Science and social media 3 Talk 14+ 111pm – 1.40pm Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly* 6 Hands on All ages 131pm – 1.45pm ChaOS talk 6 Talk All ages 131pm – 2pm Searching for the cosmic dawn: the quest for the first galaxies 27 Talk 12+ 281pm – 2.15pm STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire – life is sweet!* 21 Hands on 6+ 181.30pm – 2.30pm Gastronuts* 2 Talk 8+ 101.30pm – 2.15pm Incredible ears 3 Talk 8+ 111.30pm – 2.30pm The Wothers guide to the periodic table* 22 Talk 8+ 251.30pm – 3.30pm Science research now 3 Talk 14+ 111.30pm – 4.30pm One body: a multitude of cells 24 Hands on 5+ 182pm – 2.40pm Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly* 6 Hands on All ages 132pm – 2.45pm ChaOS talk 6 Talk All ages 132pm – 3pm Get SET Information 1 Exhibition 14+ 122pm – 3pm Rock fluid: shaping memory in transit* 15 Workshop 8+ 162pm – 3pm Dyslexia, rhythm and music 14 Talk 12+ 172pm – 3pm Build your own astrolabe* 27 Hands on 12+ 282.30pm – 3pm The new superheroes of physics: superconductors! 7 Talk 14+ 122.30pm – 3.45pm STEM TEAM Cambridgeshire – life is sweet!* 21 Hands on 6+ 182.30pm – 4pm Let Newton Be! 28 Performance 16+ 273pm – 3.40pm Playing with the entrails of a fruit fly* 6 Hands on All ages 133pm – 3.45pm ChaOS talk 6 Talk All ages 133pm – 4pm The science of Doctor Who* 2 Talk 8+ 103pm – 4pm Astrobiology: the hunt for alien life 27 Talk 12+ 283pm – 4pm Tales of a time travelling coffee shop* 20 Performance 16+ 363.30pm – 4pm The new superheroes of physics: superconductors! 7 Talk 14+ 124pm – 4.45pm ChaOS talk 6 Talk All ages 134pm – 5pm Stand up mathematics 3 Talk 14+ 114pm – 5pm The Wothers guide to the periodic table* 22 Talk 8+ 254.30pm – 5.30pm The echo of creation 2 Talk 8+ 105.30pm – 7.30pm Cooking in the danger zone: Polar food* 23 Talk All ages 305.30pm – 10pm Can you make a difference?* 20 Talk 12+ 306pm – 7pm Starman: the truth behind the legend of Yuri Gagarin 44 Talk 12+ 306pm – 7.30pm Leonardo da Vinci The genius and his times* online Film All ages 277.30pm – 9pm Let Newton Be!* 28 Performance 16+ 277.30pm – 10.30pm Festival of the spoken nerd* 20 Performance 18+ 36

(*indicates events that require pre booking, please check event listing for booking details)

Saturday 19 March pullout: events at a glance


Welcome The Science Festival starts here!

Entry to all of the lectures by Dr Wothers will be ticket only due to safety regulations. The tickets are free andcan be booked in advance by telephone (01223 336300) Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm, fax (01223 336362) oremail ([email protected]). Ticket requests made after 4.30pm on Friday 18 March will not be processed.Unallocated tickets and those not collected 15 minutes before the lecture begins will be available on a firstcome, first served basis. In addition seats not taken 5 minutes before the lecture begins will also be filled soeven if you have a ticket please make sure you arrive on time or you may not be allowed entry.

For further information on all activities visit: www.openday.ch.cam.ac.uk

11am – 12noon, 1.30pm – 2.30pm, 4pm – 5pmThere will be an additional showing on Monday 21 March, 7pm – 8pmThe Wothers guide to the periodic table – group 1, the alkali metalsA lecture by Dr Peter WothersIn this demonstration-packed lecture Dr Peter Wothers explores the reactions of these most reactiveelements. How is hydrogen related to this family of metals? What would our streets be like if sodium wasreplaced by rubidium? How much 'deader' could the Dead Sea get? How does lithium power our worldand clear our minds? See the liquid gold of caesium. Map: 22, Talk, Arrive on time, Ages 8+, Pre book (see below)Warning: Loud bangs, Ages 8+

19 March Science on Saturday Lensfield Road

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19 March Science on Saturday What’s on in the city a

What’s on at the GuildhallAll activities run between 10am – 3pmMap: 17, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 8+ (unless otherwise stated)

Explore the genetics of grey and black squirrelsDiscover the genetics of grey, black and brown squirrels in this hands on activity.Examine hairs from black, grey and brown squirrels under a microscope. There will be a poster display and stuffed exhibits of grey and black squirrels.

Conduct your own crime scene investigationPut your investigative skills to the test to try and figure out whodunit. Tryfingerprinting, footprint identification and bone excavation with this hands onactivity.Ages 5+

Respiratory function: take your breath awayCome and get your lung function tested. Using a simple computer-based test you can explore how your lungsfunction and see how your scores compare to athletes across a wide range of sports.

Cardiovascular responses to exerciseExplore how blood pressure, heart rate and the circulation interact to supply oxygen to working muscles andorgans at rest and during exercise. See what happens when blood pressure is altered. Can you take thepressure?

Muscles in actionExplore how muscles lengthen and shorten with this hands on activity. See how muscles are recruited fordifferent tasks. Through the use of electromyography (EMG) you will witness the interaction between a muscleand the brain.Ages 10+

World of sight and soundA world of sight and sound based activities for all ages from our Department of Vision and Hearing Sciences.Walk in to the hall of optical illusions, learn about how eyes and ears work and play with optical lenses whichreact to light to change their colour. All ages

Silent recording studioIn our silent recording studio you'll discover audio technology from the perspective of both a performer and astudio engineer. Audio technology allows endless possibilities, using integrated electronics, software and music.Ages 10+

Have a go at creating a PhotoFitHave a go at creating a PhotoFit face, picking from a bank of hundreds of features. Having witnessed someonecommit a crime, the witness is often asked to construct an image of that person using PhotoFit technology.Construction of a face involves picking each feature from a bank of several hundred. This is an incrediblydifficult thing to do. Come and have a go.

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Welcome The Science Festival starts here! and at the Guildhall Presented by

11am – 12noonGood vibrationsWest Road Concert Hall, 11 West RoadA lively interactive family show demonstrating how music works through maths! Have you ever wonderedhow music and maths are connected? Are you interested in Pythagoras's musical discoveries? Or howinstruments make different sounds? This educational musical show demonstrates the connections betweenmusic, science and maths. With live demonstrations and performances from a chamber orchestra, this event isperfect for a family day out.Map: 26, Performance, Ages 8+, Pre book*

2.30pm – 4pm, 7.30pm – 9pm Let Newton Be!Howard Theatre, Downing CollegeIsaac Newton – scientific genius, theological devotee and ruthless operator. This new verbatim play shows himas a master of self-reinvention, breaking through the myth to reveal the man. The play draws on archivalresearch, using Newton’s own words and those of his contemporaries. Commissioned by the Faraday Institute. Map: 28, Performance, Ages 16+, Pre book tel: 01223 300085, email: [email protected] visit: www.adcticketing.com, adults £10, concessions £6.50, unsold tickets available onthe door for cash/cheque

6pm – 7.30pm Leonardo da Vinci The genius and his timesItalian Cultural Centre, La Dante in Cambridge, 60 Hills Road Leonardo da Vinci’s name rings through history for so many reasons. Artist, scientist, genius, musician,mathematician. In this film we are taken on a rapid ride through his career and achievements. In English.Map: online, Film, All ages, Pre book tel: 01223 315191 / 07887 606227, email: [email protected] or visit: www.ladante-in-cambridge.org, £3

What’s on in the city

Visual illusionsVisual illusions are not only fun to look at, but can also tell us a great deal about how the brain works. Find outhow illusions create images that aren't really there and how others simply confuse the visual system.

Animal and human locomotionMeasure your stride length or range of motion of your elbow by using a video camera and computer software.You can compare these to a horse or a dog, or guess how fast different animals move with our interactive quiz.Ages 14 – 18

Learn how you could change the world using science and technology!Learn how you could change the world using science and technology. The Institution of Engineering andTechnology (IET) is one of the world's leading professional societies for the engineering and technologycommunity. www.theiet.orgAll ages

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19 March Science on Saturday

What’s on at St John’s College

10am – 11am, 12noon – 1pm, 2pm – 3pm Build your own astrolabeThe astrolabe is a medieval instrument for measuring and calculating the positions of the sun and stars. At thishands on session you'll learn how they work and construct your very own working model to take home andtry out on starry nights. Hands on, Ages 12+, Pre book*

10am – 4pm Big Bang: the life and work of Fred HoyleThe Old LibraryProfessor Sir Fred Hoyle FRS (1915–2001) was an astronomer,physicist, science fiction author and much more besides. He was oneof the twentieth century's most creative and controversial scientists.A collection of his personal papers and artefacts were donated to StJohn’s College Library in 2002. This exhibition marks the end of athree-year Heritage Lottery funded project to catalogue them.Exhibition, Drop in, All ages

11am – 12noon Boots, boxes and books: the life, work andpapers of Fred HoyleKatie Birkwood has spent three years cataloguing the papers ofastronomer Fred Hoyle. Come and hear what she found whilstworking through 150 boxes of papers. There have been more than afew surprises. Find out which are the most intriguing, unexpected,and revealing items. Talk, Ages 14+

1pm – 2pm Searching for cosmic dawn: the quest for the first galaxiesWhat do we know about the earliest stars and galaxies? The formation of the first stars and galaxies not onlyended the cosmic 'Dark Ages', but fundamentally altered the state of matter throughout the universe. For thefirst time, astronomers are close to capturing this early period of cosmic history. Find out more in a fascinatingtalk by Dr Dan Stark of the Institute of Astronomy.Talk, Ages 12+

3pm – 4pm Astrobiology: the hunt for alien lifeAstrobiology is a brand new field of science, encompassing research into the origins and limits of life on ourown planet, and where life might exist beyond the Earth. Join Dr Lewis Dartnell on a tour of the other planetsand moons in our solar system which may harbour life, and even further afield to alien worlds orbiting distantstars, to explore one of the greatest questions ever asked, ‘Are we alone?’Talk, Ages 12+

All activities take place in the Fisher Building (unless otherwise stated)Map: 27

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20 March Science on Sunday

11am – 12noonThe science of Doctor Who: space, time, machine, and monsterAliens and time machines, cyborgs and Daleks, utopias and killer computers. This event takes you on a journeythrough the fantastic worlds of Doctor Who, and asks you to consider the question, 'Do we live in a sciencefiction world?’

12.30pm – 1.30pmScience of the superheroesJoin the X2-men, Jonathan Wood and Brian Macken, as they put comic-book characters under the microscopeand reveal what lies behind some of their superpowers. Maybe you can use this science to become super too,but remember that with great power comes great responsibility.

3pm – 4pmDave Ansell presents: vacuum bazookas!Join Dave Ansell (CHaOS and Naked Scientists) as he shows off a selection of his very favourite and explosiveexperiments in this new show. Expect the unexpected as he demonstrates vacuum bazookas and firetornados, along with a quick trip though some of the wonderful properties of gasses.Ages 12+

Top Talks at the Babbage Lecture Theatre Map: 2, Ages 8+ (unless otherwise specified)

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19 March, 5.30pm – 7.30pmCooking in the danger zone: Polar foodThe Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield RoadJoin Stefan Gates for a gastronomical adventure to the poles. Discover the culture and food of Arctic peoples.Stefan Gates is a food adventurer, he spends his life cooking, eating, talking and travelling to discover theworld and its people. Map: 23, Talk, All ages, Pre book tel: 01223 336540 or email: [email protected]

19 March, 5.30pm – 10pmCan you make a difference?University Centre15-year-old Rhys Morgan was noticed as far as Kenya with 1 tweet on a dangerous hoax cure. Hear him andMichael Marsh (10:23), David Colquhoun, Chris Smith (Naked Scientists) and Síle Lane (Sense about Science)talk on how you too could make a difference.Map: 20, Talk, Ages 12+, Pre book email: [email protected], £6

19 March, 6pm – 7pmStarman: the truth behind the legend of YuriGagarinInstitute of AstronomyIt's 50 years since the first human space flight. Learn about the man whomade the historic trip, Yuri Gagarin, with this fascinating talk by biographerPiers Bizony. Find out, too, about the brilliant Russian rocket pioneer whocrawled, half-starved, out of a Siberian gulag to kick-start the Space Age.Map: 44, Talk, Ages 12+

19, 20, 26, 27 March, 10am – 4pm Love your natural worldShepreth Wildlife Park, Station Road, Shepreth Visit Shepreth Wildlife Park as they kick start May 2011's 'love your zoo' celebration early! You can find out moreabout the important role of zoos today in the worldwide efforts to preserve the planet's diversity of speciesand ecological sustainability. There'll be lots of lively hands on activities for all ages and animal handlingsessions. Meet educators who will tell you more about the conservation work going on at the Wildlife Park.Map: online, Hands on, Drop in, All ages, Wildlife Park admission charges apply

19, 20, 26, 27 March, 11am – 5pmThe Cambridge phenomenonCambridge Museum of Technology, The Old Pumping Station, Riverside Discover some of the people, companies and inventions that have put Cambridgeshire on the map over thelast 50 years. See the high-tech industries which have grown up locally from the 1960s up to the present day.This exhibition looks at the people, companies and inventions which have made this city a centre of innovation.Map: online, Exhibition, Drop in, Ages 11+, adults £3, children/concessions £1.50

19, 20, 21, 23, 25, 26 March , 11.15am – 1.15pmFrom alchemy to DNA Tour will commence outside the Tourist Information Centre, Peas HillJoin specialist science guides on a walk along the path that leads from the search for gold to the secret of life.Discover how Cambridge chemists have shaped our lives from the food we eat to the medicines we take. Map: online, Tour, All ages, Pre book*



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20 March, 2pm – 4pm Opticks and light tricksKettle's Yard House and Gallery, Castle Street Sir Isaac Newton and artist Winifred Nicholson, born 250 years apart, were both fascinated by prisms and light.Artist Alex Hirtzel will introduce the ideas of both – using prisms from the Whipple Museum of the History ofScience and paintings by Nicholson in the Kettle’s Yard collection.Map: online, Hands on, Pre book tel: 01223 748100 or email: [email protected]

21 March, 5.30pm – 6.15pm, 6.30pm – 7.15pm (Workshop), 7.30pm – 8.15pm, 8.15pm – 9pm (Talk)Practical science at Cambridge Regional CollegeCambridge Regional College, Kings Hedges Road Science activities and talks from medical science professionals. There will be a chemistry based session that willlook at techniques at identifying various chemicals (drugs analysis). Followed by a biology practical. Both will enable attendees to gain hands on practical experience. Talks will follow the practicals. Map: online, Hands on/Talk, Ages 10+, Pre book*

21 March, 6pm – 7pm Invisible Dust at Jesus Green Swimming Pool, artists and scientists talkUniversity CentreHow do artists and scientists work together? Professor Peter Brimblecombe, UEA and artists Hehe and Liz Ballardwill discuss the installations they have created at Jesus Green Swimming Pool about the effects of air and waterpollution. Invisible Dust explores our responses to air pollution, health and climate change through joint art andscience ventures. www.invisibledust.comMap: 20, Talk, Ages 14+

21 – 25 March, 9.45am – 12noon, 12.30pm – 2.45pm Rocket launchpad challenge – school parties onlyDepartment of Engineering, Trumpington Street Bring your class to the Department for a morning or afternoon to build and launch a rocket from its launchpad.Map: 30, Workshop, Ages 8+, Pre book tel: 01223 415650 or email:[email protected], Maximum number 32

22 March, 5.30pm – 7.30pm Are truth and fiction polar opposites? Science and writingThe Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road Is there room for linguistic experiment in scientific writing? Join poet Nancy Campbell for an evening oflanguage games inspired by the ground-breaking experiments of early climate scientists in the Polar regions.Nancy Campbell's poetry publications include Boat Trip, Yan Tan Tethera and After Light. Map: 23, Workshop, Ages 18+, Pre book tel: 01223 336540 or email: [email protected]

22 March, 6pm – 7pmChallenged by carbon: the oil industry and climate changeUniversity CentreSponsored by Cambridge University PressWe still need fossil fuels, but recent studies of the geological record show that we cannot burn with impunitythe remaining supplies of coal, gas and oil, releasing the CO2. Join geologist Dr Bryan Lovell to learn why youcan’t argue with a rock, but you can ask the oil barons to become prospective environmental saviours ratherthan villains.Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+



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23 March, 5.30pm – 7.30pmIce and climate change: science in the Polar regionsThe Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road Learn about some of the latest research from the Institute and the vital importance of the study of ice andclimate science in the Polar regions. We have several research groups investigating a range of issues in boththe environmental sciences and social sciences of relevance to the Arctic and Antarctica.Map: 23, Talk, Ages 18+, Pre book tel: 01223 336540 or email: [email protected]

23 March, 6pm – 7pm Is evolution predictable?University Centre Nobody doubts evolution, but are all the problems solved? Onewidely accepted principle is that evolution is effectively direction-less. Professor Simon Conway Morris argues for the exact reverse:like other sciences, evolution has surprisingly few options.Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+

23 March, 6pm – 8.30pm A window on the brainMRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, 15 Chaucer Road Lectures will highlight our varied research, plus there will be chance to take part in some experiments as wellas meeting students and scientists. Hands on activities for the first hour, followed by three short talks.Map: online, Hands on/Talk, Ages 14+

23 March, 7.30pm – 8.30pm The hidden mysteries within the DNA of cancersUniversity CentreThe current dogma is that all cancers arise due to abnormalities in DNA, however, until very recently, our abilityto look into the DNA of cancers has been very limited. In this lecture Professor Mike Stratton (Director of theWellcome Trust Sanger Institute) discusses how the revolutionary changes in DNA sequencing technology arebeginning to illuminate the dark landscape of cancer genomes. Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+

24 March, 4pm – 6.30pm Inauguration of the Winton Programme for the Physics of SustainabilityPippard Lecture Theatre, Cavendish LaboratoryThe magnificent gift of £20 million from David Harding to support a major programme of fundamental andapplied research in the Physics of Sustainability will be inaugurated at a special event at the CavendishLaboratory. In addition to an introduction to the Winton programme with distinguished speakers, relatedresearch areas in the Laboratory will be open for a reception following the inauguration from 5pm to 6.30pm. Map: 48, Talk, Ages 16+, Pre book*

24 March, 6pm – 7pmChanging nature: a view of Britain and CambridgeUniversity CentreSponsored by Cambridge University PressIn the future will a walk in the countryside be a silent one? The last 20 years has seen a dramatic change inBritain’s wildlife, including Cambridgeshire. Discover what the future holds and how we can make a differencewith Norman Maclean and Brian Eversham, writers of Silent Summer: The State of Wildlife in Britain and Ireland.Map: 20, Talk, Ages 14+



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24, 25 March, 9.45am – 11am, 11am – 12.15pm, 1.15pm – 2.30pm Science of sport – school parties onlyIndoor Cricket School, PE Centre, Fenner’s, Gresham RoadCome and test your strength, fitness and agility using our fun, interactive challenges. Who’s the most co-ordinated in your class? Have you got quicker reaction times than your teacher? Other activities include batak wall, target practice, vertical jumps and a speed test.Map: online, Hands on, Ages 8 – 13, Pre book tel: 01223 336997 or email: [email protected]

24 March, 4.30pm – 7pm Look what chemistry has done for me – a ChemNet eventRoyal Society of Chemistry, Thomas Graham House, Science Park, Milton Road 2011 is the International Year of Chemistry! Why not come and celebrate it in style at this event. If you’re interested in studying chemistry at higher education, pursuing it as a career or just a general enthusiast, come and find out what chemistry can do for you. Talk to chemists over a buffet. Map: online, Talk, Ages 15+, Pre book tel: 01223 432340, email: [email protected] or visit:www.rsc.org/ConferencesAndEvents

24 March, 5pm – 7pm (Talk starts at 6pm)Rough Science: the highs and lowsThe Open University in the East of England, Cintra House, 12 Hills RoadMike Bullivant, the Chemistry presenter from The Open University's popular BBC2 series Rough Science, will talk about some of the highs and lows of doing science in exotic locations. We'll also take a look at some of theamusing outtakes from the series, and challenges that didn't quite go according to plan (tea and coffee available).Map: 39, Talk, Ages 16+, Pre book tel: 01223 364721 ext 66147, email: [email protected] or visit: www.open.ac.uk/events

24 March, 1.30pm – 4.30pm, 25 March, 10am – 4.45pm, 26 March, 11am – 4pm Poster exhibition of Graduate School of Life SciencesMuseum of Zoology, Downing Street An exhibition of posters and images of work by PhD, MPhil and postdoctoral researchers in the life sciencedisciplines. All student exhibitors will be there to discuss their work with visitors on Thursday 24 March from1.30pm – 4.30pm. The exhibits will be judged and prizes awarded for the best work at 4.30pm.Map: 5, Exhibition, Drop in, All ages

24 March, 5.30pm – 7.30mBritish Graham Land Expedition (BGLE 1934 – 37)The Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road The Museum’s Brian Lintott explains how the BGLE established the foundation of Britain's ongoing scientificendeavours in Antarctica. Event includes a discussion, film and the opportunity to view the exhibition.Map: 23, Talk/Film, Ages 18+, Pre book tel: 01223 336540 or email: [email protected]

24 March, 8pm – 9pm The learning brainUniversity CentreOur brains learn by processing large amounts of information including written words, visual information andnumbers. Conditions like dyslexia can pose enormous challenges for some people learning reading and writing.Panel discussion with Professor Usha Goswami and experts in neuroscience and dyslexia exploring how the latestresearch might change the way we teach and learn. Organised by the Royal Society.Map: 20, Talk, Ages 12+, Pre book*



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25 March, 10am – 4pm Scott Polar Research Institute open dayThe Polar Museum, Scott Polar Research Institute, Lensfield Road Come see what our scientists and researchers are up to in Cambridge and out in the field. Learn about some ofthe latest research from the Institute and see what it takes to conserve Museum objects. We have severalresearch groups investigating environmental sciences and social sciences relevant to the Arctic and Antarctica.Map: 23, Open day, Drop in, All ages

25 March, 4pm – 5pmTooling up for nanoworld: the magic of molecular machinesDepartment of Chemistry, Lensfield RoadThe widespread use of molecular level motion in key natural processes suggests that great rewards couldcome from bridging the gap between the machines of the macroscopic world and systems that function atthe nanoscale. This lecture, in memory of Alex Hopkins, will describe progress on the design and assembly ofmolecules with moving parts and their development into artificial molecular machines.Map: 22, Talk, Ages 14+, Pre book tel: 01223 336339 or email: [email protected]

25 March, 6pm – 7pmYou are what you hear: music and the brainUniversity CentreDr Harry Witchel researches music, pleasure and the brain. Join him to explore, in a way never previously done,the human relationship with music and how music makes us who we are.Map: 20, Talk, Ages 16+

25 March, 7.30pm – 9pmStem cells: current treatments and potential therapiesMurray Edwards College, Huntingdon RoadSponsored by Pfizer Stem cells have been used to treat leukaemia and other blood disorders for many decades, yet it’s theirpotential to alleviate a multitude of medical conditions that has captured the world’s attention. Come andhear scientists, clinicians and stem cell recipients share their knowledge, experience and expectationssurrounding present and future therapies.Map: online, Talk, Ages 12+, Pre book*

26 March, 10am – 4pm Buddhism and scienceCambridge Buddhist Centre, 38 Newmarket RoadA talk exploring the relationship between the ancient teachings of the Buddha and modern science. Map: online, Talk/Tour, All ages

26 March, 2pm – 3pmThinking of becoming a science teacher?Faculty of Education, Donald McIntyre Building, 184 Hills Road If you are thinking about teaching, either coming straight out of your degree or as a career change, this sessionis for you! Cambridge's Secondary PGCE in Science staff will give a presentation and answer any questions youmight have.Map: online, Talk, Ages 18+



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26 March, 2.30pm – 4pmEnhancement: how far do we go?Mill Lane Lecture Rooms, 8 Mill Lane The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion presents a public discussion on human enhancement betweenfour experts in the field and the audience. Approximately 45 minutes from the panel, followed by questionsand interaction.Map: 19, Talk, Ages 16+

26 March, 6pm – 7.30pmThe science of the flavour of wineTodd-Hamied Room, Department of Chemistry, Lensfield RoadSponsored by Royal Society of Chemistry and Society of Chemical IndustryJoin Luke Webster in a lecture describing the complex chemistry of flavour generation and evolution in wines,complemented by an illustrative tasting. There will be light food to accompany the wines. All wines suppliedby Cambridge Wine Merchants. Map: 22, Talk, Ages 18+, Pre book email: [email protected], £10

27 March, 11am – 3.30pmExplore the natural world at Wandlebury Country ParkWandlebury Country Park, Wandlebury Ring, Gog Magog Hills, Babraham Explore the diversity of life in Wandlebury Country Park. Walk the nature trail, meet our amphibians, look ataquatic life under the microscope, find out what owls eat and make a home for solitary bees in your garden. Map: online, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

27 March, 3pm – 6pmBird tangoJane Harrison Room, Newnham CollegeWhat connects a scientist studying bird movements and a passionate tango dancer? Psychology ProfessorNicky Clayton explains how behaviour of birds has led to Rambert Dance Company's new science-inspiredworks. Get involved yourself by trying out some bird tango steps. Functional footwear is advised.Map: 40, Talk/Workshop, Arrive on time, Ages 16+, Pre book*

27 March, 6pm – 7.30pm, 8.30pm – 10pm Mike Maran Productions presents: did you used to be R D Laing?Mumford Theatre, Anglia Ruskin University, East Road Mike Maran brings you R D Laing, pop-shrink, rebel, yogi, philosopher king, and healer, maybe. Based on themusic of Bill Evans, Chick Corea, Keith Jarrett and Chopin, arranged for piano and performed live on stage byDavid Milligan. You'd be crazy to miss it!Map: online, Performance, Ages 14+, Pre book tel: 01223 352932, email:[email protected] or visit: www.anglia.ac.uk/mumfordtheatre, adults £11, concessions £8.50, box office open 2pm – 5pm, Monday – Friday only

27 March, 6.30pm – 7.30pmFestival evensongGreat St Mary's Church, Senate House Hill A traditional Anglican choral evensong at the University Church in celebration of the Science Festival. Preacher:Rev Dr Geoff Cook.Map: 32, Service, All ages



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16 March8pm – 9pmThe science of sex 2011CB2 Café, 5/7 Norfolk StreetFunny Women finalist Rosie Wilby brings you the sequel to the Fringe report. Award winning The science of sex delves further into the science of attraction and sexual chemistry.Map: online, Talk, Ages 18+, Pre book visit: www.wegottickets.com/event/101010, £5

19 March 3pm – 4pm

Tales of a time-travelling coffeeshopUniversity Centre, Grads CaféSet the Baristotron to 1911 and join Helen Arney in a time-travelling tale of quantum physics andcappuccinos. ‘Champion of musical whims’ (EveningStandard), ‘Charming, witty, warm’ (The List),‘Delightful’ (Chortle), ‘High-class musical comedy’(Broadway Baby). www.helenarney.commMap: 20, Performance, Ages 16+, Pre book £5* (includes coffee), unsold tickets available on the door for cash

19 March 7.30pm – 10.30pm Festival of the spoken nerdUniversity CentreMusical comedian Helen Arney, stand-up mathematician Matt Parkerand Blue Peter's resident science expert Steve Mould bring you the‘Festival of the spoken nerd’. There'll be comedy, songs, science,special guests, interactive maths, maybe some things that go bang...and always time for questions at the end.Map: 20, Performance, Ages 18+, Pre book £5*, unsoldtickets available on the door for cash

26 March 7pm – 8pm So you think you can dance science!Jane Harrison Room, Newnham CollegeCambridge scientists and dance-artists join forces to create five danceriddles based on cutting-edge research in Cambridge. You are invitedto help solve the puzzle, with the closest guess winning a special treat.An evening of splendid mashing up of local creative scientists anddance talents. This is one to watch!Map: 40, Performance, Ages 18+, Pre book £5*, unsold tickets availableon the door for cash


Cambridge Science Festival Fringe

Helen Arney Steve Mould

Matt Parker

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26 March Science on Saturday 2

Enigma: codes and codebreakingThe Enigma cipher was one of the most powerful weapons of WWII – an apparently unbreakable code. How did asmall group of mathematicians crack it? Come and see a demonstration of a genuine Enigma machine, and tryyour hand at breaking different codes used throughout 2500 years of history.Ages 8+

Hands on maths fairGames and puzzles for all ages from the University's Millennium Mathematics Project.Pit your wits against the SOMA cube, tangrams, auntie's tea cups or giant dominoes,and sharpen your strategic reasoning skills.Ages 5+

Maths public open dayCambridge mathematicians work on everything from the Big Bang and prime numbersto modelling climate change or the spread of disease. Hands on demonstrations anddisplays for all ages will share the excitement of mathematics and theoretical physics.

12.30pm – 1.15pm, 1.45pm – 2.30pm, 3pm – 3.45pmWho wants to be a mathionaire?Explore the maths of probability, chance and uncertainty in this exciting and highly interactive game-show stylequiz, using hand-held voting technology to answer against the clock.Workshop, Ages 14+

2pm – 3pm Stirring tales of evolutionOne of the fundamental issues in evolutionary biology is the nature of transitions from single cell organisms tomulticellular ones. What is the advantage of being larger? What are the driving forces behind the appearance ofdifferent cell types? Professor Ray Goldstein will describe the approaches to this problem illustrating the synergybetween mathematics, physics, and biology in current research.Talk, Ages 14+

Mathematics Zoneat the Centre for Mathematical Sciences12noon – 4pm (unless otherwise stated)Map: 43, Hands on, Drop in, All ages (unless otherwise stated)

at the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences12.30pm – 1.30pmMap: 42, Talk, Ages 14+

Viruses under the mathematical microscope: deciphering the code ofviral geometryReidun Twarock will explore how viruses can act like Trojan horses to hijack cells and how capsids are giving usinsights into how viruses may be defeated. She will will then look at how mathematical tools can provide a novellook on how viruses evolve. After the talk you can play with computer simulations or build your own icosahedra.

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10.30am – 11.15am, 11.45am – 12.30pm,1.30pm – 2.15pm, 2.45pm – 3.30pm Maps, moon rock and royalvisits: treasures from thearchivesSedgwick Museum Conservation Unit,Brighton Building, Madingley RoadHave you ever wondered about what geologistsget up to on their field-trips? Or who brought thefirst samples of moon rock to Cambridge andwhy? Meet the Sedgwick Museum’s Archivistwho'll answer these questions with the help fromthe Museum archive. Geological notebooks anddiaries, maps, photographs and letters all revealthe story of the people behind the Museum.Map: 11, Talk/Exhibition, Ages 10+, Pre book*

11.30am – 12.30pm, 2pm – 3.30pmFossil findsSedgwick Museum Conservation Unit,Brighton Building, Madingley RoadA unique chance to visit behind the scenes at theSedgwick Museum’s Conservation Unit. Find outabout how fossils are carefully removed from therock in which they are preserved ready to bestudied and displayed in the Museum. Learn tobe a Geological Conservator and extract andprepare a fossil for yourself.Map: 11, Hands on/Workshop, Ages 8+,Pre book*

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2pm – 5pmVet Hospital open dayThe Queen’s Veterinary School HospitalCome and see a fully functional hospital for four-legged patients. Visit the Imaging Department,Small and Large Animal Wards, Intensive CareUnit, Theatre Suite and our own Cancer TherapyUnit. Pre bookable guided tours are available andthere is also a range of hands on activities toexplore. Please remember our patients are sick soyou won't be able to play with them. No pets.Map: 46, Hands on, Drop in, All ages, Pre book*


2pm – 5pm What goes on behind the doorsof a Computer Science Lab?Microsoft ResearchWell, prepare to be surprised. Computing is notjust about spread sheets and presentation slides,it’s used to do many more amazing things thatyou perhaps wouldn’t expect. Take the Xbox 360hands-free controller Kinect – computer sciencemade this possible. Come and find out moreabout the science behind this and other excitingMicrosoft Research projects.Map: 47, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 10+

2.30pm – 6.30pmOpen afternoonInstitute of Astronomy, Madingley RoadThe Institute of Astronomy and Kavli Institute forCosmology will be open to the public, withposters, demonstrations and displays showingyou our research into astronomy and cosmology.The historic Cambridge Observatory building willalso be open, with an exhibition in the library.There will be a programme of talks in our lecturetheatre, and a craft tent with creative activities forfamilies.Map: 44, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

7pm – 9pm Public observingInstitute of Astronomy, Madingley RoadObserve the night sky through both modern andhistorical telescopes at the Institute’s lawns if(and only if ) the weather is clear.Map: 44, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

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Experiments, demonstrations and CHaOS Exciting practical demonstrations of diverse physics, which reveal thebeauty and surprise of scientific understanding and how it is relevant to everyday life.

Physics zone Experience physics in action – a new range of earth shaking events and make a science toy to take home. PastFestival favourites return including test the strength of a vacuum in a tug of war, fly an egg and see many newscientific surprises. To avoid over-crowding coloured tickets for specific times will be allocated on arrival.

Astronomy roadshow planetarium Sponsored by the East Anglia Branch of the Institute of PhysicsExplore the beauty of the night sky. Learn about space, stars and the solar system through these interactiveand lively shows. Times are 1.15pm, 2pm, 2.30pm, 3.15pm, 3.45pm and 4.30pm.Pre book visit: http://tinyurl.com/cavendish-sw

1.15pm – 2.15pm Greener solar cellsSunlight is the only really abundant form of renewable energy available. In the future we will need it togenerate electricity on a large scale and current methods of solar capture are too expensive to compete withfossil-fuels. In this talk, Professor Richard Friend looks into the future of cheaper solar cell production, usingcarbon-based molecules, which take inspiration from how green plants harness solar energy.Talk, Ages 14+

Meet the Physicist talksPippard Lecture Theatre2.15pm – 3pm, Astronomy: rough guide to the Universe with Dr LisaJardine-Wright. Ages 5+3.15pm – 4pm, 4.15pm – 5pm, Crisp packet fireworks with Dave Ansell. Ages 12+

Small Lecture Theatre1.15pm – 2pm, 2.15pm – 3pm, Vacuum bazookas and custard fireballs with Dave Ansell. Ages 12+3.15pm – 4pm, Astronomy and physics: light the messenger with Dr Lisa Jardine-Wright. Ages 8+4.15pm – 5pm, Cavendish: most famous discoveries with Dr Lisa Jardine-Wright. Ages 14+Talk, Pre book visit: http://tinyurl.com/cavendish-sw

To guarantee a seat at these lectures you can pre book for a maximum of three lecturesonline at: http://tinyurl.com/cavendish-sw. Some seats will be available on the day, but cannot guaranteed unless booked in advance.

Physics Zone in the Cavendish Laboratory1pm – 5pm (unless otherwise stated)Map: 48, Hands on, Drop in, All ages (unlessotherwise stated)

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Maketastic!Enjoy a host of activities including creating your very own laser photo. Witness biological construction bysome of nature’s brilliant builders. Find out how our heat-sensitive camera can capture your image after you’vegone. Watch demos by the ink-jet research team, including 'stopping' time and creating lightning from waterdrops. There will also be a chance to see the robots in action in our state-of-the-art automation lab.Ages 5+

Laser festGet a glimpse of the latest laser technologies and find out how they are used in industry. Watch high speedlasers engrave the head of a live match so fast it isn't even set alight. See what happens when a powerful laseris fired against small metal particles within a supersonic jet stream, and witness lasers cutting through metalsup to 30mm thick. Get a close view of some magnificent mini-beasts using our powerful electron microscope.Ages 8+, Booking available on the day

Mini make-itEver had an idea for a wizard widget or great gizmo? Our resident inventors will try to help you turn your ideasinto reality at the Makespace mini make-it event. Just bring along your idea and have a go at making it.Ages 5+, Booking available on the day

Laser rocket racingFire lasers at mini rockets and make them speed along a wire track. Race your friends and family and see whois the fastest.Ages 8+

1pm – 1.45pm, 2pm – 2.45pm Never tell an engineer it can't be done!From manned space flight to conquering the ocean depths.Dr Tim Minshall will show how challenges are the inspirationfor innovation. Talk, Ages 10+, Pre book*

3pm – 3.45pm, 4pm – 4.45pm The Santa Claus machineHave you ever dreamed of being able to make anything youlike in your own home – having a kind of ‘Santa ClausMachine’ in your bedroom to create a must-have toy or thelatest gadget? It may sound like science fiction but Dr BillO’Neill will showcase some of the fascinating technologiesthat are helping to make such personal factories a reality. Talk, Ages 10+, Pre book*

Manufacturing Zonein the Institute for Manufacturing1pm – 5pm (unless otherwise stated)Map: 49, Hands on, Drop in (unless otherwise stated)

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10am – 12.30pmFilm screening of Finding Nemo Arts Picturehouse, St Andrew’s StreetFind out how the brain and memory work with afree, fun-filled science activity before the film at10.30am.Map: 29, Film, All ages, Pre book(available from 19 March)tel: 0871 902 5720 or visit:www.picturehouses.co.uk, children £4.50,adults free, Kids Club members £3.40

10am – 3pmTranslating science intomedicineSt Catharine’s College, Trumpington StreetActivities that showcase translational medicineand therapeutics including demonstrations ofclinical trials, posters, prizes and a lot moreMap: 36, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

10.30am – 4pmSchools ZoneUniversity CentreTeams of students from secondary schools andsixth form colleges are the experts, showingwhat is happening in schools either as part oftheir curriculum or in after-school clubs. Expectloads of enthusiasm from the future generationof scientists, technologists, engineers andmathematicians as they bring interactive fun tothe Festival. Last year hundreds of visitors passedthrough the University Centre and this year’sevent will be even bigger and better!Map: 20, Hands on, Drop in, All ages

11am – 3pmINSTRUCT lab workshopFaculty of Education, 184 Hills Road The INSTRUCT research group(sites.google.com/site/instructlab) has beenstudying how students' reasoning abilities relateto their ability to learn about scientific ideas thatinvolve things we can't see from atoms to cells.Join the Director, Dr Michelle Ellefson, to try outone of our new computer tasks and take part inan activity looking at how things dissolve inwater.Map: online, Hands on, Drop in, Ages 5+

11am – 3pm Infant cognition workshopFaculty of Education, 184 Hills RoadThe Infant Cognition Lab is interested in howbabies see the world. Even though they cannotspeak, they can make sense of things aroundthem. Join the Director, Dr Claudia Uller, who willbe running a workshop on how babies think:what we have learnt so far, and what ourresearch aims to find out.Map: online, Workshop, Drop in, This event is intended for babies 0-18 months



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Accessibility guide

For further information about accessibility, please contact the Information Centre on: 01223766766 or email: [email protected] Monday – Friday: 9am – 5pm until 26 March, also from9.30am – 4pm on Saturdays 19 and 26 March.

T Toilet, wheelchair accessibleL Level, ramped accessPA Partial access, ring for details

Li Lift to all floorsI Induction loop

Arts Picturehouse Cinema T, L, PA, I

Arts School Rooms A, B, C and Café T, L, Li

Babbage Lecture Theatre L, Li, I

Biology Zone, Large Exam Hall T, L, Li

Cambridge Buddhist Centre T, PA

Cambridge Museum of Technology T, L

Cambridge Regional College T, L, Li

Cambridge University Press Bookshop L

Cavendish Laboratory T, L, Li

CB2 Café No access

Centre for Mathematical Sciences T, L, Li, I

Department of Biochemistry T, L

Department of Chemistry T, PA

Department of Engineering L, Li

Department of Experimental Psychology L, Li

Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy T, L, Li

Department of Pathology PA

Dept of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience T, PA

Department of Zoology L

Downing College T, L, Li

Emmanuel College T, PA, Li

Faculty of Education T, L, Li

The Fitzwilliam Museum T, L, Li, I

Great St Mary’s Church T, L, I

Guildhall T, L, Li

The Guildhall (walk) No access

Gurdon Institute T, L, Li, I

Indoor Cricket School, Fenner's T, L

Institute of Astronomy T, PA

Institute of Continuing Education T, L

Institute for Manufacturing PA

Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences T, L, I

Italian Cultural Centre, La Dante PA

Jesus Green Swimming Pool PA

Kettle’s Yard T, PA

Lady Mitchell Hall T, L, Li

Lucy Cavendish College T, PA

McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research L

Merton Hall Farmhouse T, L

Michaelhouse Café T, L, Li

Microsoft Research T, L, PA

Mill Lane Lecture Rooms T, L, Li

MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit T, L, Li, I

Mumford Theatre T, L, Li, I

Murray Edwards College T, L, I

Museum of Zoology T, L, Li

Newnham College T, L

The Open University T, L, Li

Pembroke College Cellars PA

Physiological Laboratory L, PA

The Pitt Building T, L, Li, I

The Polar Museum T, Li, I

Robinson College T, L, I

Royal Society of Chemistry PA

Sedgwick Museum Conservation Unit PA

Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences T, PA, Li

Shepreth Wildlife Park T, L

St Catharine's College PA

St Columba Church Hall T, L, Li, I

St John’s College T, L, PA

The Queen's Veterinary School Hospital T, L

University Centre T, L, Li

Wandlebury Country Park T, L

Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute PA

Wesley Methodist Church L, I

West Road Concert Hall T, L, I

Whipple Museum of the History of Science L, Li

283 Milton Road No access

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Community Affairs

The Cambridge Science Festivalis co-ordinated by theCommunity Affairs team at theUniversity of Cambridge.

The Community Affairs team acts as acentral information point for members ofthe public. We also work across theUniversity and Colleges to supportcommunity and outreach activities. Theprogrammes we support range fromannual festivals, one day events that raisefunds for charities, student run schemesand educational programmes.

Every year, Community Affairs co-ordinates the Open Cambridge weekend in September, the CambridgeFestival of Ideas in October and the Cambridge Science Festival in March.

9 – 11 September 2011Open Cambridge Cambridge is home to some spectacular architecture, fantastic art collections and beautiful gardens. OpenCambridge is a weekend of tours, talks and open access, in which buildings, grounds and collections go ondisplay for families, local residents and community groups. The full programme will be available from lateJune 2011.

19 – 30 October 2011Festival of IdeasJoin us at the 4th Cambridge Festival of Ideas, which celebrates the arts, humanities and social sciencesthrough talks, performances, film screenings, hands on activities and workshops to suit all ages. Furtherdetails and a programme will be available from July 2011.

Cambridge in the Community DirectoryThe Cambridge in the Community Resource Directory is a useful tool for you to find more about theactivities run by the University of Cambridge and the University museums, in which you can get involved.Schools, colleges, community organisations and the public can browse through what’s on offer for them.http://webservices.admin.cam.ac.uk/outreach

What’s On at the University of CambridgeThe best way to find out about future events at the University is to visit the What’s On website which lists allof the up-and-coming activities, from family events to adult lectures.

To subscribe to our monthly email newsletter: www.cam.ac.uk/whatson

For more information on any of the above visit: www.cam.ac.uk/communityaffairs

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Science Festival 2011

Documents

Transcript of Science Festival 2011