University of Leicester announced as British Science Festival 2022 principal partner

British Science Festival-goers will be treated to some incredible events courtesy of globally renowned experts from the University of Leicester.

The national science showcase, which takes over the city of Leicester between Tuesday 13 and Saturday 17 September, will feature more than 100 free, engaging and off-the-wall installations, performances and activities.

As a principal partner of the festival, the University of Leicester is behind a series of events, which cover topics including space, skeletons, DNA and genes.

University of Leicester highlights include the following talks and events:

The Future of Space Science  
Take in an epic talk, a journey through time – guiding you through to the future of the UK’s space economy. We’ll cover future missions the UK will be involved in, delving into ground-breaking discoveries and new technologies along the way. From the James Webb Space Telescope, BepiColombo, Ariel, ExoMars, and an exciting plan to return samples from Mars. 
This mind-expanding panel discussion brings together world-leading experts in space policy, engineers, and scientists to discuss what the future has in store for the UK’s space economy. 
Thursday 15 September, midday to 1pm.
The Venue@DMU, De Montfort University
More details and book your place.

DNA Family Secrets
 Turi King is the expert geneticist on the hit BBC series DNA Family Secrets with Stacey Dooley. In this talk, she will chart the rise in the use of DNA in genealogy and forensics for everything from tracing long-lost family members to catching criminals. Her examples will include the first immigration case through to identifying the bones of King Richard III.
Thursday 15 September, 6pm to 7pm
The Venue@DMU, De Montfort University
More details and book your place.

Skeletal secrets 
We’ve convinced Sarah Inskip and her colleagues from the University of Leicester’s School of Archaeology and Ancient History to let you in on some secrets. But you’ll need to search your bones and teeth to find them. 
This series of activities around bioarchaeology will reveal what effects your lifestyle can have on your bones. Whether it’s from past tobacco use or the role of intoxicants in causing chronic disease – find answers from within. 
Please be aware that human skeletal remains will be used in this exhibit.
Saturday 17 September, drop in any time between 11am and 4.30pm at The Clock Tower and Humberstone Gate, Leicester. 
This is a drop-in event, no booking is required.

In the genes? How genomic research can improve our health 
Let’s talk genes. Ever wondered why some people develop heart disease, or asthma, whilst others don’t? And why do people with the same disease have different symptoms and or responses to treatments? 
Join researchers from the University of Leicester and dive into discovering how variations in our DNA sequence can affect our risk of developing diseases through these hands-on, interactive activities.
Saturday 17 September, drop in any time between 11am and 4.30 at The Clock Tower and Humberstone Gate, Leicester. 
This is a drop-in event, no booking is required.

The full British Science Festival 2022 programme line-up, including more events run by the University of Leicester, can be found on the website.

The British Science Festival is hosted by De Montfort University.

Follow the British Science Festival on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for all the latest on #BSF22!