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Creating a brain storm with 40 experts

Press release issued: 14 March 2007

More than 40 neuroscientists will gather in At-Bristol during the week-long celebration of Brain Awareness Week on 12 – 18 March 2007.

More than 40 neuroscientists will gather in At-Bristol during the week-long celebration of Brain Awareness Week on 12 – 18 March. This will be the largest gathering of experts that At-Bristol science centre has ever hosted at one time.

These scientists will assist visitors in carrying out a host of brain-related experiments and activities, such as building a brain model, which surprisingly, young people find much easier to do than the scientists! Visitors will also get to experience tactile illusions such as confusing their brain into thinking that their nose is stretchable like Pinocchio’s!

Dr Sheila Dargan, a neuroscientist from Bristol University said: “There will be a wide variety of mind-boggling hands-on activities to help explain how the brain works and a chance to talk with scientists about their own research or brain related issues.”

This public forum, in return, provides a rare opportunity for these volunteer scientists from Bristol University and Bristol Neuroscience to gather opinions and exchange insights regarding brain-related issues and dilemmas, such as the increase of dementia on our aging population and the use of brain-enhancing drugs. In addition, it is also an excellent platform to cultivate scientists to be more participative in engaging the public with their work. 

“We are extremely excited about this event as it provides us with a wonderful opportunity to host such a large number of experts! We are very grateful for the help from the scientists of Bristol University for making this event possible.” Says Lorraine Coghill, Learning Manager, At-Bristol.

“What we’ve achieved here is to bridge the gap between scientists and society. There’s a huge chasm between real science and what individuals are being exposed to and understand, this is especially so for complex subjects like brain science. At-Bristol provides that common ground for both parties to meet, learn and develop!” Says Lorraine. 

Sessions run between 10am and 5pm everyday from 12 – 18 March, activities are free with a ticket to Explore. These activities are funded by the Big Lottery Fund.

Further information

Please contact Caroline Clancy for further information.
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