Prize talk puts chemistry in spotlight

Chemistry is key to developments such as green energy and better healthcare, the University Christmas Lecture will say.

Colin Pulham, Professor of High-Pressure Chemistry, will present the talk as the winner of this year’s University prize for engaging the public with science.

He will use lively demonstrations to explore the many benefits chemistry brings to society at the event, in George Square Lecture Theatre at 6pm on Tuesday 6 December.

Book online

This event is FREE but ticketed. Places are limited so booking is essential.

You will be sent tickets as an email attachment - please print and bring with you to the event.

Benefits for society

Professor Pulham will explore how chemistry can be applied to produce healthy foods, new medicines, and advanced materials.

The audience will also hear how chemistry can be used to monitor metals in the environment and develop solar cells.

Global engagement

Professor Pulham has been engaging with public audiences for more than 16 years through demonstration talks, workshops, and s throughout the UK and abroad, including Russia, Mauritius, and Hong Kong.

In recent years he has been highlighting the high-pressure research conducted at the Centre for Science at Extreme Conditions in collaboration with the ISIS Neutron Facility and the Diamond Light Source.

His lecture coincides with the designation of 2011 as the International Year of Chemistry.

Annual award

The University Christmas Lecture forms part of a ceremony, during which Professor Pulham will be presented with a medal by former MP Tam Dalyell.

The annual Tam Dalyell Prize for Excellence in Engaging the Public with Science recognises an individual or group’s work in fields including hosting school visits, talks and other public events or through publishing and broadcasting.

The prize is open to all University of Edinburgh staff. The winner also receives a grant of £500 for their science communication activity.

Mr Dalyell, an enthusiastic science communicator, was Rector of the University of Edinburgh from 2003 to 2006. He also wrote a weekly column for New Scientist magazine from 1967 to 2005.

Event details

University Christmas Lecture

Tuesday 6 December 2011, 6pm - 7.15pm George Square Lecture Theatre, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9LK

This event may be photographed or recorded for promotional or recruitment materials for the University and University approved third parties.