Outreach and Public Engagement
We’re passionate about physics and proud to carry on a tradition that started with natural philosophy, the study of the nature of the universe. We’re committed to sharing our passion with the next generation and the wider community.
So much of our research has an impact on society, and we are driven to ensuring that we communicate it through a variety of public engagement events, from the very small to the very large!
Through outreach, we aim to raise awareness of physics careers and help build a more diverse and inclusive community of students and staff. We also offer a variety of on-campus activities for school pupils of all ages.
You can find our most recent projects and activities or you can follow us on Instagram for our latest news and events.
The Physics Department in collaboration with the Glasgow Science Centre, host a series of public lectures throughout the winter months. The David Elder lecture series presents a line-up of fascinating talks by expert astronomers, spaceflight pioneers, award-winning science writers, and broadcasters. Talks are held in the planetarium at Glasgow Science Centre, making full use of the spectacular dome digital projection system. The lecture series have been running for over 100 years, when the tradition of monthly astronomy lectures began with the first David Elder Lecture in 1905.
David Elder Lectures originated as the result of an endowment made by Mrs Isabella Elder to the University. The scope of the endowment is the maintenance of ‘Lectures of Descriptive Astronomy’ in memory of David Elder, her father-in-law.
Glasgow has an amazing history of scientific and industrial discovery and invention, and this continues to drive the city today. However, today's technology is usually taken for granted, and Glasgow's contribution is far too often ignored.
Science on the Streets explores the history of science and technology behind every day Glasgow. Free walking tours and a companion website give a way of seeing how science, technology, and their history are built into the city. If you would like to see the 'tape measure' in George Square, hear the story of the two Glasgow scientists' attempt to bring an executed murderer back to life using electricity, or find out how the James Watt steam engine works, then read on or come on our tour.
Supported by the Institute of Physics and in collaboration with Strathclyde Institute of Education, we deliver a day of bespoke activities and talks to inspire young women to study physics.
One of the key features of this event is getting our undergraduate and postgraduate students involved in delivering the activities to showcase a wide range of role models.
Leaning into our expertise in Quantum Technology, we have partnered with the Quantum Technology School team to offer a 2-day programme for school pupils every September.
This programme of talks workshops and interactions with current Physics students is incredibly popular with schools from all over Scotland visiting Glasgow.
We are committed to supporting school pupils to consider taking Physics at all levels. As well as University Open Days, we offer a range of opportunities for pupils to meet physicists - through Open evenings, school talks, careers fairs, on-campus visits for their Advanced Higher projects and more. Please get in touch to find out how we can support your school or students.
