The University of Otago Science Expo will take place on Saturday, 1 and Sunday, 2 July at the Otago Business School.
The University of Otago is honoured to once again be a major partner supporting the New Zealand International Science Festival.
This year, the Festival celebrates 25 years of inspiring and engaging people of all ages and backgrounds about the role science plays in our daily lives and the positive difference it makes. With over 90 events in venues across Ōtepoti, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
“The Festival is a highlight in our calendar each year,” says Professor Richard Barker, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Sciences.
“With contributions from many departments representing all our academic divisions, it is a wonderful showcase of the interdisciplinary nature of science.”
Otago academics, students, and research feature in over 20 events, from the always popular University of Otago Science Expo to edible insects, science playwriting, mysterious chemistry, virtual reality marine experiences and more.
Check out a selection of Otago events below and head on over to the Festival website for the 2023 programme.
1-2 July: University of Otago Science Expo
Come explore the wide range of science research taking place at the University of Otago via hands-on activities the whole family can enjoy!
2 July: Peering Through the Haze – Let’s Talk About Vaping
What are the harms and benefits of vaping in Aotearoa New Zealand?
3 July: Is Science Making Our Food Safer?
RNZ presenter Kim Hill discusses the future of food and what it means for NZ producers and consumers with a panel of food experts.
4 July: Tackling food waste together: Actions and innovations
Leaders in government, research, industry, and non-profit explain how they are addressing food waste, and what you can do to help.
4 July: Healthier Kiwis: A National Science Challenges Panel
The National Science Challenge talks - how can we improve the health and wellbeing of kiwis across all age, cultural and economic spectrums?
6 July: Exploring Our Marine Environment Through VR
Experience the wonder of underwater Aotearoa through virtual reality.
6 July: Enabling Kaitiakitanga: A National Science Challenges Panel
A panel discussion about how we remove barriers for Māori to enact kaitiakitanga and what this looks like in practice.
8 July: Playwriting panel with Tim Jackson
Tim Jackson, renowned ecological economist and BBC radio playwright, is joined by Otago academics to discuss science playwriting.
8 July: The Physics of Hot and Cold
How cold can you withstand? Can we hold boiling liquid in our bare hands? Join us for an experimental investigation of our everyday physics!
9 July: Mysterious Chemistry
An audience participation event exploring activities that appear almost magical but can be explained with chemistry.
