Pint of Science Canada invites scientists to your favourite local bars to discuss their latest research and discoveries over a drink or two. This is the perfect opportunity for the public to meet researchers and ask questions. We also provide a great platform for scientists to practice their communications skills in a relaxing and informal environment!
Describe your charity/non-profit in a few sentences.
Pint of Science is an international non-profit that aims to bring together scientists and the public for a 3-day festival in May. Our events occur at local bars, and we bring out scientists to discuss their research and answer any questions that the audience has! These events don’t require any background knowledge or scientific training, as they are designed for anyone with scientific curiosity.
What problem does it aim to solve?
This event is focused on making science more accessible to the public.
When did you start/join it?
Pint of Science was started in 2013 in the UK, I joined last year as the Toronto city coordinator.
What made you want to get involved?
As a scientist, I think it is important to not only publish papers for other scientists, but also to communicate those results with everyone!
What was the situation like when you started?
This is the second year Pint of Science has held events in Toronto. The first year we focused on one theme (the brain) and had a great turnout. Last year in Canada we ran the event in 11 cities.
How has it changed since?
This year in Toronto we have added 3 additional themes – Atoms & Galaxies, Planet Earth and Our Body, as well as returning our Beautiful Brain theme. This year, there are 25 cities that are running events concurrently!
What more needs to be done?
We still have room to grow! There are a few more themes, such as Science & Society, and Tech me out. The more themes and scientists we have, the more people we can reach. We are always looking to expand the event to new cities in Canada as well.
How can our readers help?
Come hang out with us! We love when people join in on the conversation. If you have specific science questions or are just curious about what it means to be a scientist, this is the event for you. We love to engage people in science!
If you are passionate about science communication, we are always looking to expand our event to more Canadian cities, so don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’re interested in hosting the event in your city.
Do you have any events coming up?
Our annual festival is happening on May 20th-22nd, at various locations in Toronto and around Canada. The events are in the evening from 7 PM – 9 PM. Event information can be searched on Facebook or on our website.
Where can we follow you?
You can follow us on Instagram and Twitter @PintofScienceCA, and Facebook as Pint of Science Canada.
All of our event information and our national team contact information can be found on our website.
