Fish and chips and biodiversity, how seaweed can be a medicine, and Ireland’s underwater forests are among marine topics which will be discussed at the “Pint of Science” global science festival opening next week.
The three-day event opens in 11 Irish towns and cities from Monday, May 13th until Wednesday, May 15th.
Over 130 speakers will talk at 45 events in venues extending from Dublin to Dundalk to Athlone to Mulranny, Co Mayo, and free tickets are already available through its website.
Ailbhe McGurrin, PhD researcher at University College, Dublin
Among the marine experts are Ailbhe McGurrin, PhD researcher at University College, Dublin, who will talk in Slattery’s, Dublin about seaweed’s benefits as a medicine for the future.
Simon Benson, PhD researcher at Trinity College, Dublin, will speak about Ireland’s underwater forests, and Peter Lahiff, masters’ student at Atlantic Technological University, Galway, will address the ecosystem services provided by seaweed aquaculture.
Simon Benson, PhD researcher at Trinity College Dublin
Marine Institute participants include Bríd Ó’Connor, who will speak about what to do if your shark lays an egg – as in a scientist’s guide to citizen science.
Bríd O'Connor
Also from the Marine Institute is Julia Calderwood who will discuss fish and chips and biodiversity.
Julia Calderwood
The aim of the event is to allow scientists to share their research findings with an audience in a casual setting. Topics addressed by over 100 researchers will cover “everything from anthropology to zoology”, the organisers state.
This year’s Pint of Science will run its first Irish language event and will also provide sign language support.
Pint of Science outreach manager Ciara Varley says that as a registered charity, it is “100% volunteer run and supported by both public and private organisations across Ireland”.
“This year, our team of 65 volunteers comprises students, scientists and science enthusiasts from across Ireland,” she says.
Further details of venues, dates and topics are on the Pint of Science website at pintofscience.ie
