taste of science: a fest to feed your curiosity

Posted by Barbara Spencer on April 19, 2018 in News, San Diego, Science communication | Leave a comment

I’m a firm believer that science and beer pair well together. Luckily for me, taste of science San Diego highlights the best of both in a week–long festival. As the city coordinator, I’ve worked with an incredible team to create a festival that provides San Diegans a unique opportunity to get a flavor for the latest research by attending accessible science events in their favorite local hangouts.

Have you ever wondered why we find some people more attractive than others? Or how tiny DNA strands make us who we are? Are you looking for some insider tips on the

In full costume, scientist Pascal Gagneux will take you on the journey of a sperm cell, navigating dangerous territory in order to fertilize an egg. 

neuroscience of surviving the zombie apocalypse? Or just want to learn how to sleep better? Your questions have answers, and we’re bringing you the brilliant minds who have found them.

Local researchers will come out to share their work with their neighbors in a casual setting over a beer or bite to eat. The best part is that there’s plenty of time for discussion after the talks so that you can actually engage directly with the scientists themselves in a casual setting. As director of Scientists, Inc., Parmvir Bahia puts it, “This is an opportunity for you to go straight to the source on subjects that you’d often only read or hear about in the news. A chance to hear someone describe what goes on behind closed doors, and a chance to question them about it.”

taste of science is a project of Scientists, Inc, a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to promoting scientific research. What makes taste of science different is that it’s a festival geared towards adults. “There are so many amazing events for children out there,” says David Basanta, Deputy Director of Scientists, Inc. and Associate Professor at Moffitt Cancer Center. “However, people’s curiosity doesn’t just stop when they become adults. We wanted to create something that would allow grownups to learn about and enjoy the wonders of science in their playground.”

This year, taste of science San Diego features a week of events April 22nd–28th. Prominent local scientists will share their expertise in a fun and engaging way all over San Diego: from Vista to Barrio Logan, from Point Loma to North Park. Tickets are just $5 and can be purchased on the website.

 
And don’t worry, readers outside of San Diego. This annual festival takes place simultaneously in cities across the US! If you’re hungry for more, check out our facebook, twitter, and instagram for the latest updates!