1st November 2016
Science Week 2016 takes place from 13th – 20th November
Science Foundation Ireland is exploring some ‘spooky science’ this Halloween to officially launch Science Week 2016! Every year Halloween showcases the more gruesome side of life and Science Foundation Ireland is exploring why the unusual and darker side of nature is a beloved part of the holiday. From technology and science combining to create the special effects that thrill visitors at haunted houses and scary movies, to strange medical conditions that may have inspired the myths behind zombies, werewolves and vampires, science is all around us this Halloween. Science Foundation Ireland is encouraging people to explore and discover the spookier side of science this Halloween to prepare for the celebrations of Irish science and technology during Science Week 2016.
Launching Science Week 2016, Minister of State for Training, Skills and Innovation, John Halligan TD said; “Science Foundation Ireland’s Science Week makes Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) fields a pleasure to investigate and discover. STEM fields are vital for Ireland’s future, both socially and economically. Capturing the interest of the nation is crucial to attract and encourage the next generation of future Irish scientists and engineers. Events such as the Robert Boyle Regional Science Festival in Waterford, make science accessible for everyone across the island, helping to drive interest in Ireland’s growing scientific community.”
During Science Week (13th – 20th November), regional science festivals are being held across the country. These Festivals are being held in Cork, Kerry, Sligo, Limerick, Galway, Mayo, Cavan/Monaghan and the Midlands. Aiming to highlight the exciting world of science and how it shapes the world around us, these festivals feature a wide range of events including family open days and events exploring the science behind our everyday lives and schools outreach events.
Dr Ruth Freeman, Director of Strategy and Communications at Science Foundation Ireland and said; “Science Week is a wonderful opportunity to explore the world of science and technology around us. Taking science out of the classroom and highlighting how it impacts and transforms the world allows people to become fascinated with the wonders of science in the everyday. This year we have lots of events that will allow you to explore the science behind your coffee in the morning; how athletes reach their ‘Peak Performance’; how we can all sleep better and; whether Shakespeare can ‘Make you fall in Love’! I would encourage everyone to take part in any of the hundreds of events happening nationwide and be dazzled by the advancements and discoveries that have been made by the Irish scientific community.”
Scientific Sue invites the whole family to join her journey of scientific discovery into the Science of Bubbleology on Thursday 17th in Kilmainham. With lots of help from volunteers Scientific Sue will show the audience many incredible bubble tricks and reveal the science behind them. Discover why bubbles are round and why they float and the scientific secret behind big bubbles.
Revealing the impact science has on our everyday lives, including our national pastimes is Peak Performance in Kilmainham. Experts in the field of sports performance, nutrition and physiology discuss the ongoing research behind sporting success including the true impact of pushing your body to the limit. Featuring experts from the world of GAA, running and mountaineering the discussion will guide the audience in how to apply best practice to their performance and daily lives.
Hundreds of events are being held nationwide to celebrate Science Foundation Ireland’s 21st annual Science Week from the 13th to the 20th of November. For a full list of the thrilling science shows, hands-on workshops and talks across the country visit the Science Week website www.science.ie
Further information can be found on Twitter @ScienceWeek.
Join the conversation on social media using #ScienceWeek
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For Further Information
Science Foundation Ireland
Morwenna Rice
086 1940069
Alva O’Cleirigh
01 607 3249/087-9152553
About Science Week 2016 – www.scienceweek.ie
Science Week will take place from 13th – 20th November and is coordinated by Science Foundation Ireland, as part of its education and public engagement programme. It is a collaboration of events involving industry, colleges, schools, businesses, communities, researchers and students throughout Ireland.
About Science Foundation Ireland
Science Foundation Ireland funds oriented basic and applied research in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) which promotes and assists the development and competitiveness of industry, enterprise and employment in Ireland. The Foundation also promotes and supports the study of, education in and engagement with, STEM and promotes an awareness and understanding of the value of STEM to society and in particular to the growth of the economy. See www.ScienceFoundationIreland.ie
#ScienceRising supporting Innovation 2020 – a Science Foundation Ireland campaign that creates the connection for industry and individuals with science and innovation in Ireland.
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