Celebrating Science Week in the Tropics

JCU will host events at The Tanks Arts Centre over two nights – Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 August.

Both evenings will include an interactive Come and Try! space at Tank 5 from 6.00pm. Everyone is invited to explore this science-art installation, encounter robots and drones, investigate virtual reality and meet local researchers.

“If you’ve ever wondered what scientists actually do, or you’d like to talk to a local expert, you’ll enjoy Come and Try,” organiser Dr Tasmin Rymer. “There’s lots to try and lots to learn about, from how venom is harnessed for cancer treatment, to understanding our native Australian mammals and the threatened species of the Wet Tropics.

At PechaKucha on Wednesday 16 August each scientist will have just 20 images, and 20 seconds per image, to tell their story. Speakers will include Professor Darren Crayn recounting adventures chasing plants on mountaintops, and Dr Paul Giacomin filling us in on how having worms and germs in the gut might actually be good for some.

On Wednesday night there is a $5.00 cover-charge, plus a gold coin donation. Come and Try! will begin at 6.30pm and PechaKucha starts at 7.30pm.

At Cafe Scientifique on Thursday 17 August, the theme is: Why I became a scientist. “Science is a career that can take you anywhere, although it’s hard to imagine a better place to work as a scientist than here in the tropics,” invasive ant researcher Dr Lori Lach said.

Café Scientifique is a collaboration between scientists and artists, telling stories that they hope will ignite the science fire in young people.

“The tropics have 50 per cent of the global population and 80 per cent of its biodiversity. JCU researchers work on some of the big issues facing tropical communities, but the tropics can also be the source of solutions to global challenges,” Dr Lach said.

Admission is free on Thursday night. Come and Try! opens at 6.00pm and Café Scientific starts at 7.00pm.

For more information: visit National Science Week at the Tanks on Facebook or www.scienceweek.net.au.