Inspiring young people to live a life scientific

Cardiff University researchers have shared their ideas and expertise with children, young people and community members as part of a city-wide festival which aims to inspire the next generation of Welsh scientists.

From chess masterclasses and strategies for surviving a zombie apocalypse to strawberry DNA extractions and the science of the past, festival-goers have had the chance to learn about the extraordinary science behind our everyday lives.

The Cardiff Science Festival, which runs every February, celebrates the outstanding science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) research and world-renowned science communicators the Welsh capital has to offer.

A special launch event got the festival underway at the Pierhead in Cardiff Bay where Professor Haley Gomez, Deputy Head of Cardiff University’s School of Physics and Astronomy, was interviewed by broadcaster and physicist Professor Jim Al-Khalili for Radio 4’s The Life Scientific programme.

“I know from experience how STEM subjects can sometimes seem off-limits for certain parts of society. And, unfortunately, there are still some real barriers in perceptions and access for girls and working class people. We work hard to overcome these in partnership with schools and colleges by inviting young people into the University. Hopefully this inspires and educates children and young people and shows them that there is a place here for them.”

“This kind of outreach work is at the heart of the Cardiff Science Festival and so I’m delighted to see colleagues from across the University getting involved and offering up their expertise to our next generation of Welsh scientists, engineers and mathematicians.”

Run by volunteers and supported by UK Research and Innovation and First Campus, the four-day festival unfolds across Cardiff’s key landmarks including the University’s city campus and at pop-up events for attendees to discover in libraries, cafés and bars.

Catch-up on the highlights from the Cardiff Science Festival across social media on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.