The BA festival of Science visits Liverpool this September and there is a whole host of lectures planned including some that writers may find interesting. I'm certainly hoping to attend one or two on the events.
On Saturday September 8th science fiction author Stephen Baxter will be taking part in 'Science Fiction and You.'
The website says: "Join us for an afternoon of science fiction as we explore its place in culture, education and science communication. What role does sci-fi play in public understanding of, and hopes and fears around, science? How can we use science fiction in education, and to stimulate productive public dialogue? Science fiction author Stephen Baxter, popular science analyst Jon Turney and others explore the relationship between science fiction, science communication and education.
3-6.30pm at Hearnshaw LT, Eleanor Rathbone £5.
Biography and geography/adventure book fans may be tempted by 'Climb every mountain with Sir Ranulph Fiennes'. Taking place at the Playhouse, Williamson Square Monday September 8th 8-9.30pm £7.50. "The world's greatest living explorer visits Liverpool to share his remarkable achievements and adventures with us." As Dr Midas is also a daring explorer I think this will be up my street so I've bought a ticket.
Murder, Mystery and Microscopes Tuesday September 9th 2008 1.30-3.30pm at LT A, ULRB (free) and then 6-8pm at Bluecoat, School Lane (free.)
"How accurate is crime fiction? Is forensic science really as glamorous as TV's CSI? Join best-selling crime authors Val McDermid, Margaret Murphy and Peter James, and four of the country's top forensic experts as they reveal the science behind the stories - and the stories behind the science. Hosted by Radio Four's Quentin Cooper, this event includes readings and book signings by the authors." A must for crime writers.
'Guilty Robots, Happy Dogs' on Sunday September 7 11.30-12.45 at Blackwells, University of Liverpool campus - £3.
"Do animals have thoughts and feelings? Could robots have minds like our own? Can we ever know, or will the answer be forever out of our reach? Join David McFarland and his robot as he explores the answers to these questions, drawing not only on the philosophy of mind, but also on developments in artificial intelligence, robots, and the science of animal behaviour. "
Useful for science fiction writers this sounds intriguing and of particular interest to me as one of my characters is a robot dog called Sniffer.
For poets - Climate Change and 'hopeful monsters' using poetry to communicate the impact of climate change on biodiversity.
"We all have something to say about climate change, but here is your chance to express your feelings more poetically. With a biologist on hand to provide the science of climate change and its potential impacts on biodiversity and a poet to help you turn the facts into imagery and verse. Join this interactive event where science and art work together in perfect harmony." Saturday September 6th 2-3.30pm International Lounge, Guild of Students £3.
I also like the look of this - should be good research for my planned underwater Dr Midas adventure. Meet the underwater treasure hunter
"Come and explore virtual underwater sites using an underwater simulator developed by the University of Hull. Shipwrecks are eroding and some of their priceless cargo is being looted. New project VENUS (Virtual Exploration of Underwater Sites) is creating a detailed map of the seabed to locate these precious artefacts and generate 3D records before the sites disappear forever. Take your turn on the simulator after the event." £5 Lecture Theatre A ULRB Tuesday September 9th 9.30-10.30am. Seeing as I can't swim this would be a good way to get an idea what it's like underwater I'm looking forward to this one most.
For more details on events and to book visit www.the-ba.net
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