NI Science Festival returns to Derry with world‑class scientists
The NI Science Festival is set to return to the North West from February 11–22 with a roster of world-class scientists and family-focused STEAM events.
Organisers of the festival said it celebrates the wonders of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics through a programme of events that aim to inspire curiosity, spark conversations and showcase how science shapes our world.
Commenting on this year’s programme, festival director Sarah Jones said: “Science isn’t just for labs. It’s in our history and culture. It’s how we understand the world around us and that’s what we’re about at the NI Science Festival. We’re here to open up a whole world of possibility for audiences.”
Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Ruairi McHugh, welcomed the return of the event to the North West, saying: “I am delighted to welcome the Festival back to Derry and Strabane and to see such a diverse programme of events taking place across our City and District. The festival is a fantastic celebration of exploration and innovation, bringing science out of the classroom and into our communities in a way that is engaging, accessible and fun for people of all ages.
“Events like this play a vital role in inspiring our young people and reinforcing our reputation as a place that values learning, culture and creativity.”
Organisers of the NI Science Festival said this year’s programme will include a range of well‑known science communicators and innovators from across the UK and Ireland. Among them is Andrew Smyth, aerospace engineer and judge on Netflix’s Baking Impossible, who will present Bakineering Takes Flight, a show exploring links between baking processes and engineering principles, at the New Gate Arts & Culture Centre.
Andrew Johnston of Alternative Ulstours will deliver a talk on Friday the 13th examining Ireland’s historical and cultural relationship with superstition. Piseóg: Bad Luck of the Irish will look at how psychology, probability and cultural traditions influence perceptions of luck.
In The Science of Flann O’Brien, DCU professor Dermot Diamond will discuss the scientific themes present in the writer’s work, including The Third Policeman, often cited as one of the author’s most notable examples of scientific imagination.
Chemist Dr Kathryn Harkup, author of V is for Venom, will return to host another Deadly Dinner Experience at the Walled City Brewery, combining scientific discussion with a themed dining event.
Neuroscientist Professor Gina Rippon will present The Lost Girls of Autism at The Playhouse, examining research on how women and girls have historically been misdiagnosed or overlooked in autism assessments.
Foyle Science Showcase will be returning to Foyle Arena for a free family event on February 21 from 10 am till 5 pm.
For booking information and further details, visit www.nisciencefestival.com.