University News Last updated 23 April 2018
The world’s largest festival of public science talks will see more than 30 scientists take the stage in pubs across Birmingham in May, discussing everything from dark matter and DNA to sex and violence.
As part of the three-day Pint of Science festival (Monday 14 – Wednesday 16 May), thousands of scientists around the world will speak about their research. In nearly 300 cities across 21 countries, members of the public will have the chance to ask them questions. The festival brings a unique line up of talks, demonstrations and live experiments to the nation’s favourite locals.
Researchers in your local
Birmingham City University researchers – along with colleagues from Aston University and University of Birmingham – will talk at a number of venues, including The Gunmakers Arms, The Woodman, Cherry Red’s, The Church, and more.
Attendees in Birmingham will enjoy a variety of events including:
Let’s Talk About Sex
The Gunmakers Arms, Monday 14 May, 7-9pm (doors 6.30pm)
Birmingham City University academics present a thought-provoking evening looking at issues of gender and sexuality. Professor John Mercer will be discussing the place of pornography – in particular gay porn – as a feature of contemporary popular culture and its relationship to modern masculinity, while Dr Keeley Abbott and Dr Annalise Weckesser will talk about ‘The VQ: a women’s health, sex & pleasure pop up’, which they established to help address the stigma and silences around women’s (sexual) health.
Violence, Murder and the Criminal Mind
The Gunmakers Arms, Wednesday 16 May, 7-9pm (doors 6.30) 
Birmingham City University criminologist Professor Elizabeth Yardley will be looking at what makes people commit murder and violent crime, and why we are so fascinated with women who kill and kill again.
Dr Emily Halford, Pint of Science coordinator and former PhD student from University of Birmingham, said:
“This is our fourth year of involvement in the Pint of Science Festival and this year is bigger and better than ever. We’re delighted to be working with colleagues from Aston University and Birmingham City University to put on such a wide-ranging and exciting programme of events.”
Postgraduate research
Pint of Science was established six years ago by a group of UK-based postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers, and has grown into one of the world’s biggest science festivals.
The founders, Dr Praveen Paul and Dr Michael Motskin, have brought a personal touch to science, giving everyone the chance to meet the people behind the incredible research taking place across the globe.
Co-founded Dr Praveen Paul said:
“There is so much fascinating research happening right under our noses that we don't know about. Some can get lost in translation leading to fake news. Pint of Science allows people direct access to inspiring scientists and encourages open discussion, all in the most familiar of British places, the pub! Scientists drink pints too – they really aren't that different!
Tickets are available from the Pint of Science website, with each evening costing £4.