School of Chemistry
Science Kitchen
Launched in April 2024, The Science Kitchen is a pioneering on-campus kitchen and laboratory at the University of Leicester. It supports innovative, food-focused science communication through live events, recorded videos, webinars, and hands-on workshops. Combining culinary techniques with scientific principles, especially chemistry, it provides a dynamic platform to educate, entertain, and inspire. This facility is the realisation of Dr Josh Smalley, Chemistry postdoctoral researcher and Science Communication Champion, borne out following his rise as a celebrity baker after reaching the final of The Great British Bake Off in 2023.
I am passionate about both chemistry and baking, and am on a mission to communicate how science impacts our everyday lives. By presenting scientific concepts through shared cultural experiences such as the universally-relatable lens of food, we can bridge the gap between the laboratory and the culinary world.
The Science Kitchen has been featured in publications such as The Observer Food Monthly, helping to bring the excitement of chemistry to audiences who might not typically engage with science. Stay tuned for the latest updates from Josh, and details of community and outreach events in the School of Chemistry.
Read more about how the Science Kitchen is working to make Chemistry more accessible through communication and outreach, Webinars and 'live' events, and our Chemistry@Leicester series.