Exploring Big Questions: Science Oxford Teams Up with Author Emma Young at the Oxford Literary Festival
Science engagement and literature met in a unique collaborative event as Science Oxford partnered with the Oxford Literary Festival for a special presentation featuring science author and journalist Emma Young.
Held at Pusey House Chapel, the session brought together young minds and curious audiences to explore an array of quirky and thought-provoking concepts drawn from Young’s What If… book series.
Sparking Curiosity Through Unconventional Science
Hosted to encourage creative thinking about the natural world, the event tackled unusual scenarios like whether dogs could have antennae, how tectonic plates function using a sliced bread demonstration, and what might happen if every active volcano erupted simultaneously. Attendees also looked into surprising bodily and biological facts, including daily mucus production and animal hybrids such as the pizzly bear and liger.
Francesca MacLennan, Director of Science Education and Engagement at The Oxford Trust and Science Oxford, emphasized the value of using books as a creative hook to inspire future scientists and raise STEM career aspirations. Meanwhile, Ben O’Donnell from the festival highlighted that the collaboration marks the sixth consecutive year of joint programming between the two organizations, continuing a tradition of connecting young generations with prominent figures in science and children's literature.
The successful partnership highlights the ongoing role of culture and literature in science communication across the city. To plan your own visits or look into further events and exhibits, you can explore the museums list, check out the map view, or browse what's on exhibitions on Musemap (musemap.art).
