Where Science and Society Meet Conference

University Museums Group and University Museums in Scotland joint conference

23 - 24th September 2015
University of Durham

There is no doubt that the public appetite for science is growing. The interface between science and culture continues to shift and is a constant point of excitement, interest and debate. Arguably science cannot be presented in isolation but as an integral part of our culture, intersecting with the arts and humanities, with museums providing ideal spaces to demonstrate and communicate this.

University museums are pioneering ways to engage audiences in the science research of universities and this conference will explore how these developments are more than advancing the public understanding of science. Instead they can engage audiences in current research agendas, the latest scientific breakthroughs and in the wider social and ethical issues connected to scientific research. Dynamic exhibitions and museum programming are increasingly creating  a dialogue and sparking public debate. Such interventions in the gallery space facilitate knowledge exchange between the research community and our audiences, whilst also re-animating and challenging established perspectives of historical science and medical collections.

The conference will introduce delegates to the current science research landscape and will explore the intersection of science with arts and culture in a museum setting. Keynotes and panel discussions will address the challenge of combining these themes and linking collections in ways that inspire our visitors. Sessions will bring practitioners in the sciences and social sciences together with museums professionals and artists to talk about science engagement and reinvigorating science collections in museums.

Booking information
Conference fee is £75.00
This includes lunch, tea and coffee on both days as well as the optional museum tours on the second day. The evening drinks party is being supported by Durham University. A reduced rate of £45.00 is available for students (limited to 20 places).

Accommodation
City centre university accommodation is available within Durham Castle (University College) and neighbouring Hatfield College at a special conference rate. This can be booked online at the time of booking the conference. A range of single, double and twin accommodation is available, starting at £54.16 per person per night including a full English breakfast. Alternatively a range of hotels, guesthouses and B&B accommodation is available in Durham city centre.

Please book online

To view the full conference details and programme click here