Sci/Tech Bar in Cambridge

The Cambridgeshire branch of the British Science Association plans to organise a Sci/Tech Bar in Cambridge.

SciBars typically provide a forum for scientists and non-scientists to get together in an informal setting (a bar) to discuss a scientific topic. Typically, an active researcher/scientist introduces the session with a short background talk (< 30 minutes) on their work and this is followed by a general discussion around the subject.

We have come up with a new angle for a Sci/Tech Bar and the aim would be to convey the following messages to the public:

1. The importance of long term funding of basic science

2. The steps and timeframe required to develop the science/technology into a product already on the market or close to market

3. The difference in timescales from initial scientific discovery to products in different sectors

4. The interdisciplinary nature of product development (and therefore dependence on advances in different scientific disciplines)

5. The application of sciences into different end sector products (a classic example is the NASA technology and memory foam mattresses)

The proposed format would have a researcher/scientist give a short timeline of the key discoveries in the field that have lead to the point the science/technology could be developed into a commercial product (15 minutes). This would then be followed by a person from the company who highlights the development into a product on or near market (15 minutes). In some instances, one person could present both aspects.

Cambridge is the ideal place for such a format, with one of the world's leading research universities combined with a high level of Business Enterprise Research and Development, not only in start-ups but also in established multinational corporations.

We are now looking for companies who are willing to volunteer for a Sci/Tech bar which will start first quarter 2011. We anticipate that this would provide an ideal opportunity for local High Tech companies to showcase their technology to the wider community. If you or your company are interested, or want to know more about the Sci/Tech bar, please get in contact with Dr Katia Smith-Litière before 20 December at info@britishscienceassociation-cambridgeshire.org.uk.