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ZSL

Zoological Society of London

11 April 2022

London’s famous Southbank will play host to a range of game-changing women and non-binary people across science this spring, as Soapbox Science returns for its twelfth year in the capital. 

On Saturday 28 May 2022, from 2:00pm-5:00pm, Gabriel’s Wharf on the Southbank will transform into a hub of scientific learning and discussion, as some of London’s leading scientists take to their soapboxes to showcase their knowledge to the general public.  
 
Soapbox Science was co-founded by ZSL scientist Dr Nathalie Pettorelli and Professor Seirian Sumner from UCL (University College London) in 2011. It champions the vital role of women and non-binary people in science, and encourages people from all backgrounds to engage with, and get inspired by, scientific ideas and advances, while challenging preconceptions about what a scientist looks like. 
 
This year’s free London event will kick-off with leading experts from across Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM). Speakers include Dr Sophie Common of ZSL’s Institute of Zoology talking about rewilding and how to maximise wild animal health during translocation and Dr Grazia Todeschini from Kings College London talking about renewable energy sources in everyday life. Professor Chloe Orkin from Queen Mary University London will be discussing science and social justice, while Dr Cintia Akemi Oi will reveal what we can learn from wasps. These inspiring scientists will be part of a line-up of many eminent speakers, covering weird and wonderful topics; including making diamonds out of thin air and coral spawning in South London. 
 
Soapbox Science co-founder, ZSL’s Dr Nathalie Pettorelli said: “Soapbox Science events offer scientists a chance to break free of conventional communication methods like lectures and graphs, giving them a fresh platform to engage with the general public. They can help promote the emergence of role models that will spur on the young scientists of the future, while challenging stereotypes on who or what a scientist really is.  
 
“Now held globally in 14 countries and 50+ cities, we’re really proud of what it has become. Soapbox Science started in London, so we are delighted to be back here for a live in-person event!” 
 
The all-star science session at Southbank is part of 35 other free Soapbox Science events around the world.

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