Dr. Aprami Jaggi presents at last year's inaugural Soapbox Science event at the Calgary Zoo.
Adrian Shellard
May 28, 2019
Soapbox Science event returns to Calgary
Leading female scientists take to their soapboxes to share research and passion for science; campus event on May 29
This week, some of our community’s top women scientists are coming out of their labs and into brand new “habitats” both on campus and at the Calgary Zoo for an afternoon of all things science. These remarkable women in science will amaze with their latest discoveries, and answer the science questions you have been burning to ask. The event hosts experts in neuroimaging, microbiology, chemistry, conservation ecology, paleontology, physics, and glaciology.
On-campus event on Wednesday, May 29
On Wednesday afternoon, the Faculty of Science is bringing Soapbox Science to campus and transforming the Taylor Quad into an informal speaker’s corner. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, experts will cover curious topics like: How can you can kill microbes with ambient light? What was the Earth like in the age of fossils? How do concussions affect your brain? What’s in your inhaler? Can bacteria travel in outer space? What is nature’s icy bank account?
“When we bring science to unexpected locations and give people the opportunity to meet and interact with scientists, we break down barriers,” says Steve Vamosi, associate dean of diversity, equity and inclusion in the Faculty of Science. “When many people think of a scientist, they picture an old man in a white coat — we want to challenge this perception by showcasing the work of female scientists in a fun and friendly way.”
Soapbox Science at the Calgary Zoo June 1
For those looking for a fun activity this weekend, the scientists will be set up on the West Lawn, across from the Panda Passage at the Calgary Zoo on Saturday, June 1, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the main Soapbox Science event, free with zoo admission. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.
What is Soapbox Science?
Soapbox Science is an international program promoting the visibility of women in science. This is the first time the program has come to Calgary, courtesy of the Faculty of Science.
“Soapbox Science is a great initiative that encourages curiosity and conversations to flow,” says Lesley Rigg, dean of the Faculty of Science. “Through this event we hope to inspire people to look at science in a different way.”
See full details, including the speaker lineup.