Science Festival 2024
Discover, survive and thrive
12-16 August 2024
The University’s 10th annual Science Festival is a week-long celebration of scientific knowledge, innovation and progress with a series of free events for students, staff and the general public.
From public lectures, expert-led masterclasses, panel discussions, games, and activities, the festival has something for everyone. This year, our theme “Discover, survive and thrive” will highlight the importance of science discovery and innovation in ensuring the survival and thriving of different species in an ever-changing world.
This year's marquee events
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Public lecture: Model citizens: How mathematicians are helping the planet (Monday 12 August, 5-7:30pm)
This free public lecture will explore how mathematical eco-warriors are using the power of numbers and new models to protect life on Earth. Recommended for ages 16+
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Collaborate to Innovate Expo (Thursday 15 August, 11am-4pm)
Visit this free, one-day Expo for hands-on experience of the latest STEM research from across the University of Melbourne. Recommended for ages 10+
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Mid-afternoon Masterclasses (12-16 August daily, 2-2:45pm)
Explore the research and impact of rising science stars from the University of Melbourne in these free, 45-minute, interactive experiences, hosted online daily throughout the Festival. Recommended for ages 12+
Is your school group interested in attending? Email science-events@unimelb.edu.au to develop a customised itinerary.
2024 Science Festival partner events
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National Science Quiz 2024 (Monday 12 August, from 9:30am)
Get ready to put your science knowledge to the test and join the fun! The National Science Quiz is open to everyone to watch and compete online. Participate solo, as a class, school, family, or friends.
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STEMX Networking event for women and gender diverse humans (Tuesday 13 August, 12:30-2pm)
This event is a speed-meeting event where you’ll have the unique opportunity to connect with others working in STEM in direct conversation.
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Emerging Contaminants Workshop: Pollution & Health (Wednesday 14 August, 10am-4pm)
The Emerging Contaminants Workshop is an annual event hosted by the Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants at the University of Melbourne.
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Hugh Williamson Lecture with Paola Balla and Paola Morabito (Wednesday 14 August, 6-7pm)
Acclaimed Wemba-Wemba & Gunditjmara artist Dr Paola Balla and filmmaker Paola Morabito discuss their collaborative process as cousins and creators of the work Mok Mok Murrup Yakuwa.
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A Glimpse into WEHI Student Life 2024 (Thursday 15 August, 4:30-6pm)
The WEHI Student Association (WESA) is hosting a unique opportunity to gain insight into student life at WEHI and to explore the different career opportunities available.
Acknowledgement of Country
The University of Melbourne acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the unceded land on which we work, learn, and live: the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong peoples (Burnley, Fishermans Bend, Parkville, Southbank and Werribee campuses), the Yorta Yorta Nation (Dookie and Shepparton campuses), and the Dja Dja Wurrung people (Creswick campus).
Indigenous Australians have been custodians of the lands and waterways of this country for thousands of years. As Australia’s first scientists, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have deep and enduring knowledge of the land, waters, and skies. We pay respect to Elders past, present, and future, and acknowledge the importance of Indigenous knowledge in the Academy. As a community of researchers, teachers, professional staff, and students we are privileged to work and learn every day with Indigenous colleagues and partners.
Missed out on previous years' events?
Or just want to relive the excitement? Watch older Science Festival recordings here in your own time.
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Panel event: Science gets real – from problem to lab innovation to real-world impact (2023)
A group of scientists whose innovations are solving real-world problems discussed lessons learned that could help others. Recording now available.
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Panel event: Should we care about science denialism? (2023)
How concerned should we be about the unscientific opinions of influencers? A diverse panel of experts discussed science denialism. Recording now available.
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Mid-afternoon Masterclasses (2023)
This year's popular online Masterclasses explored El Niño, diamonds in volcanoes, patterns in AI, how to keep your furry friends happy, and the art of food science. Recordings now available.
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Collaborate to Innovate Expo (2023)
The Expo featured a series of interactive installations that showcased the latest in STEM research across the University of Melbourne's faculties, schools, institutes and centres.
About Science Festival
Since 2015, the University of Melbourne has celebrated National Science Week with an annual, week-long Science Festival, showcasing the latest in STEM research across our faculties, schools, institutes and centres through free public events.
Questions?
Faculty of Science Events Team
science-events@unimelb.edu.au