The Voice of Science - "Particle Physics Engagement in Edinburgh: from Peter Higgs Legacy to LEGO and boardgames"

by Dr Jean-Christophe Denis (University of Edinburgh)

Tuesday 21 Jan 2025, 13:30 → 14:30 Europe/Zurich

52/1-052 (CERN)

The event is aimed at the CERN community and CERN Alumni and Retirees, therefore in-person attendance will require having a valid CERN access card.

CERN Alumni should use this form to request CERN access cards.

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Last year, CERN celebrated 70 years of groundbreaking scientific collaboration and innovation, with science communication playing a pivotal role in highlighting these achievements. Join us for an exciting series of events "The Voice of Science" centered on science communication, featuring renowned speakers who will share their expertise and insights into making complex scientific ideas accessible and engaging for all. The events will take place at the CERN Library located in Blg. 52/1-052.

The fifth talk will be by Dr. Jean-Christophe Denis, who will present the public engagement activities of the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Edinburgh. While their School does research in areas other than particle physics, Prof. Peter Higgs was a colleague in the School; He will therefore focus on his legacy and the public engagement work related to particle physics. He will briefly mention how they embed public engagement in their School, and what are their goals and objectives. Then he will expand on their main activities at the moment: events to celebrate Peter Higgs, LEGO project for remote schools, boardgames for adults and school students, masterclasses, teacher training, and many more. He will also develop their vision for community engagement, and how their students are involved in these activities too. He will finish by presenting their upcoming projects, related to the legacy of Peter Higgs (they have significant archives of his materials) and bringing actual research into schools.  

Dr. Jean-Christophe Denis works as Public Engagement Officer and Lecturer at the School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Edinburgh, since 2017. He is responsible for the Public Engagement strategy of the School and its implementation, and therefore leads numerous public engagement projects alongside researchers from the School and beyond, teaches public engagement, and is involved in the delivery of many events and activities throughout the year. He won awards from his Public Engagement work, in particular regarding Community Engagement, and a Teaching Award for his approach to working with students on public engagement. Outside of work, you can find Dr. Denis doing folk dancing, cooking, cycling, reading and enjoying the outdoors.