Pint of Science Loughborough: Bringing Research Stars to a Venue Near You

The international science outreach festival Pint of Science returns to Loughborough as the University’s research community make their way from labs and offices to local cafés, restaurants and pubs to share their research stories.

From 13-15 May, from 6.30-8.30pm each evening, over 55 scientists and researchers will deliver 21 talks, demonstrations and live experiments in relaxed and informal environments across Loughborough town centre.

Esquires Coffee, Public and Plants Cafe, Albert House, PETER Pizzeria, The Swan in the Rushes, Champs Bar and Grill and Revolution will host a full programme of events including:

‘Can we prevent dementia?’ – A fascinating workshop from Eef Hogervorst (Professor of Biological Psychology)

‘Green Hydrogen – fuelling the future’ – A whole evening of discussion and demonstrations from a team of researchers working at the cutting edge of green hydrogen technologies for net zero.

‘The Science of ADHD’ – An eye-opening talk about ADHD research from Loughborough’s Dr Eric Hill and ADHDadultUK’s co-founder Dr James Brown.

Loughborough is one of only seven Pint of Science festival locations in the UK to host Creative Reactions, a brand-new series of events promoting fusion between science and the arts to showcase research in a new light. These events include a gallery of works, co-created by the University’s scientists and artists, discussions of how these researchers work together and an open mic(roscope) night.

Loughborough Pint of Science 2024 coordinator Lisa Barrett Wheatley (Chemical Engineering) said: “We’re so excited to bring to you Loughborough’s biggest ever Pint of Science Festival! With 21 events themed from neuroscience to climate change, there is something to quench everyone’s thirst for knowledge. Many of our venues are also giving Pint of Science attendees exclusive drinks and food discounts, so these are events not to be missed!”

Two-time coordinator, David Whitfield (Geography), added: “Science isn’t just lab coats and risk assessments… we’re excited to unleash the exciting side of science research and showcase some of Loughborough’s newest and coolest breakthroughs!”

This year’s Pint of Science Lead coordinator Esther Mgbemeje (Chemical Engineering) said: “It is amazing to see researchers and scientists come together in an informal setting to share their breakthroughs and advancement in various fields from arts, social science to science and Engineering, all while networking, having a drink and a good laugh”.

Loughborough audience members will also be able to take part in the largest ever multi-city pub quiz – in association with interactive quiz company, KwizzBit – which will see teams tackle event-themed trivia and go head-to-head with other cities interactively, in the hope of claiming the top spot in their city and across the UK.

Professor Dan Parsons, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation at Loughborough, said: “I am absolutely delighted that our doctoral students have once again taken the lead in delivering such a diverse and captivating programme of events featuring all career levels of the University’s research community.

“Pint of Science provides a fascinating insight into the real-world relevance of the research that happens across the University, spanning the breadth of our three institutional strategic themes. I encourage local communities to join us for some lively discussions!”