On August 21, female scientists from the universities of Bonn, Cologne and Düsseldorf introduced the public to their research at the Rudolfplatz, Cologne.
Think "outside the box" is often the phrase used to describe leaving your old thinking habits behind and getting creative. This is exactly what scientists from the universities of Cologne, Bonn and Düsseldorf will be doing on August 21, starting at 2 p.m. on Cologne's Rudolfplatz: Standing on a "soap box," they want to inspire the general public with their research topics. They have previously learned in a workshop how to do this without technical aids, PowerPoint presentations or lecture halls. All citizens are invited to learn about exciting science from the world of immunology, aging and plant research in a relaxed atmosphere. The lectures will be held mostly in German and partly in English. Participation is free of charge.
The event is part of the international Soapbox Science initiative, which aims to bring science to the people and challenge gender stereotypes in scientific professions. The inspiration for this format was Speaker's Corner in London's Hyde Park, where debates and discussions took place publicly in the open air. This year, Soapbox Science celebrates its tenth anniversary with 45 events planned in 15 countries.
The Rhineland variant, "Soapbox Science Rhineland," is jointly hosted and run by the ImmunoSensation2 Cluster of Excellence at the University of Bonn and the CECAD Cluster of Excellence at the University of Cologne - together with volunteers. In addition, the Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf supports the event with its Cluster of Excellence for Plant Research CEPLAS, its Citizens' University and the Collaborative Research Center SFB 1208.
Of the twelve scientists giving lectures, two are from the Cluster of Excellence ImmunoSensation2: What does fast food do to our immune system? - Dr. Anette Christ from the Institute for Innate Immunity at the University Hospital Bonn (UKB) will talk about this. Blanca Jurado-Mestre from the Institute of Molecular Medicine and Experimental Immunology at the UKB will give an insight into the importance of the recovery after an immune response.
