The University of Westminster hosted its second Pint of Science festival between 19-21 May at The Ship, Fitzrovia. Over 120 members of the public attended the three nights where academics and PhD researchers from the School of Life Sciences coordinated and delivered events on various scientific matters.
This series of events was organised by Dr Kevin P Cunningham, Dr Lewis Mattin and Dr Bradley Elliott with support from Dr Cathy Moore and PhD students Success Ajayi and Manpreet Mujral. Running since 2013, Pint of Science aims to deliver engaging talks, workshops and experiences in the more informal venue of pub and bars, as researchers pitch their research to interested, or soon-to-be-interested, members of the public.
The first night, named Under Pressure: The Science of Stress, was delivered by Dr Claire Robertson and Dr Laura Boubert. This night explored how stress impacts the body and mind, including its effects on metabolism, glucose levels, overall health and wellbeing. The session broke down the science behind the dangers of stress and demonstrated these effects in real time with interactive activities involving audience volunteers. It offered an engaging look at the hidden ways stress shapes our daily lives.
The second night, CSI: Bloodstream, was delivered by Dr Maria Neofytou and Dr Nadege Presneau. This night delved into the science of liquid biopsies and various ways blood can reveal hidden molecular clues about cancer. Framed like a forensic investigation, the talk explored how researchers are learning to detect cancer at its earliest stages by analysing fragments of free-floating DNA and other microscopic signals that tumours leave behind. With blood samples treated like crime scenes and cancer as the elusive suspect, the evening highlighted how this innovative research could revolutionise early detection and transform the future of cancer diagnostics.
Delivered by Dr Ifigeneia Kalampouka, Dr Rhys Mould and Professor Lewis Dartnell, the third night, titled Quantum Leap: The Physics of Biology, highlighted how the rules of quantum physics might influence the way living things work. The speakers discussed how light powers cells in the human body and how ideas from physics can help us better understand everyday biological processes. By connecting the small, unpredictable world of quantum mechanics with the complex systems of life, the session offered a thought-provoking insight into the science behind how our bodies function.
About the events, Dr Kevin Cunningham said: “Pint of Science is genuinely one of the best weeks of the year for us. We get to entertain and engage with the public in a great environment - the pub! In a laid-back atmosphere, we can explain cutting-edge research and concepts and generate real interest and intrigue that both scientists and the public really enjoy. It is only our second year running this event and it has been fantastic. We sold out almost immediately without any effort to push sales. We thank The Ship Pub who have been incredible in hosting us. Watch out for next years’ festival on 18-20 May 2026, where we promise to deliver better than ever!”
This event directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3: Good Health and Wellbeing and 4: Quality Education. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about the School of Life Sciences at the University of Westminster.
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