Soapbox Science is a novel public engagement platform that aims to promote women in science, and the research that they do. The first Soapbox Science event took place in London in 2011, and the outreach event has grown since then; this year there are events going on across the UK, Canada, the US, Germany, Sweden and Tanzania.
HSRU’s own Dr Heidi Gardner brought Soapbox Science to Aberdeen in 2018 after taking part in the Edinburgh event as a speaker in 2017. Until now, Soapbox Science has been a part of the University of Aberdeen’s May Festival only, but these events have proved to be such a success that this year there will be a second Soapbox Science event as part of Explorathon, or European Researchers’ Night.
Explorathon 2019 offers events across the city centre, bringing Aberdeen's researchers closer to the public through fun and engaging events, talks, comedy and hands on activities. Being part of Explorathon will give Soapbox Science speakers the chance to share their research with members of the Aberdonian public. The event will take place in Aberdeen’s ‘Gold Zone’ – the pedestrian area at the top of Market Street outside the St Nicholas Centre, on Saturday 28th September, 12-3pm, it’s free to attend and no booking is required.
Reading this as a researcher or scientist? Soapbox Science cannot run without you! The event plays host to 12 speakers, and applications for speaking slots are currently open. Please sign up here: bit.ly/2YiPvxP.