03 June 2021
The Royal Society has revealed its digital programme for Summer Science 2021, which runs from Thursday 8 July to Sunday 11 July 2021 and brings together some of the UK’s most exciting researchers for four inspiring days of cutting-edge science, online workshops, lectures and at-home activities, all completely free.
This year a digital Summer Science hub will replace the exhibition floor, bringing the country’s cutting-edge research to life through games, quizzes and interactive activities. It will also offer plenty of chances to meet the scientists and research groups, who are the stars of Summer Science, through interactive workshops and demonstrations.
The 19 groups (listed in full below) taking part in Summer Science 2021 are selected from universities and science institutions across the UK and are demonstrating research that will transport you from the search for life on Mars, to the microbes living on our own bodies that cause BO.
Visitors can also:
Anyone who can’t wait for the launch of the online hub can check out the programme of events online.
Cosmologist Professor Carlos Frenk, chair of the Royal Society’s public engagement committee said: “We are thrilled to be able to share the brilliant work and exciting discoveries of our 2021 research groups.
“These are scientists involved in cutting-edge research projects, from working on the ExoMars rover, to building machines that can read the mind.
“Summer Science has been reinvented many times since the first Royal Society Conversaziones began in the 18th century, but it will always be a place for innovative researchers to showcase exciting discoveries in an entertaining and accessible way.
“While we can’t wait to welcome guests back in person at the Society’s historic building, we are now able to digitally reach thousands of people around the world who may never have been able to visit the exhibition before. I really hope you will all join us.”
Events throughout Summer Science 2021
Guests can dip into a host of short, online “lightning” lectures every day from the research groups and other expert speakers. Join Dr Stephen Wilkins on an interstellar journey through the ground-breaking discoveries made possible by the Hubble Telescope. Or hear Dr Laura Ruiz Cantu and Dr Yinfeng He administer an exciting dose on the future of medication and the chances of a “wonder pill” one day being able to deliver multiple drugs at the correct dose and time.
There will also be longer talks throughout Summer Science, including scientist and TV presenter Professor Alice Roberts, who will give the inaugural Royal Society David Attenborough award lecture.
Join famous faces at the Big Summer Science quiz
The Big Summer Science Quiz will return this year with host, comedian and science presenter Helen Arney joined by special guests and Fellows of the Royal Society – including the Royal Society’s Professor of Public Engagement, Professor Brian Cox.
Put your dream teams together and scribble the date in your diaries - Wednesday 7 July, 6.30pm - 7.45pm
For the whole family
A host of family-friendly activities, quizzes, and events are also on offer for curious minds of all ages, including:
For older kids
Each group's work is framed around a big question they want the public to investigate and explore. The full list of research groups confirmed for Summer Science 2021: