Science in the local community

We organise a range of activities, including exhibitions, open days, lectures and on-site visits to explain the Institute's research programme to members of the public and societies. Recent visitors have included the Friends of Kettle’s Yard, The University of Cambridge Society for Visiting Scholars, The Rotary Club, as well as groups from Germany, France, Korea and Brazil.

The Institute maintains close links with the local community, regularly informing residents of Babraham village about progress in scientific research and building developments on the Babraham Research Campus, as well as responding to requests and enquiries. An Open Evening was held for the village in July 2004 and again in September 2006. The events typically include a tour of the campus, new buildings, and laboratories, presentations from Babraham scientists, a panel Q & A and the opportunity to talk with staff during a buffet supper. Last year we introduced a children’s science club for ages 5-11, allowing parents to attend the presentations while their little ones were entertained with some hands-on science.

The focus of Babraham's Science & Society programme has been with schools, however, we are always keen to speak to new groups and increase the scope of our activities. Earlier this year we hosted the Bottisham Guides’ Easter Camp, which included an afternoon of science; guides extracted their DNA and also learnt about the institute’s research into cardiovascular disease with an opportunity to dissect hearts provided by the local butcher.

Contacts

Dr Claire Cockcroft
(Head, External Relations)
01223 496260
Contact by email