About this day
For A level and IB students
Join us for an amazing day of exhilarating chemistry which will take students from key concepts learnt in the classroom to the latest advancements in chemical research! Through five engaging sessions students will meet experienced scientists from academia and industry and be inspired to become the scientists of the future.
Each day also includes a special session on examination success that will ensure students are equipped with the tools they need to excel. There will be plenty of interactivity throughout the day, with polls, quizzes and (of course) your chance to question the scientists – join us at Chemistry in Action this autumn!
Host: Alex Baker (Organic Chemist, University of Warwick)
“Great variety of talks and good interactive elements!”
Chemistry Teacher, March 2023
Programme & speakers
Waste Crime: How Chemical Forensics Might Solve Our Big Waste Problem Anna Ploszajski, Materials Scientist, Writer and Storyteller
18% of all waste in the UK is illegally managed. The waste crime economy in England alone is estimated to be worth £1 billion a year, as profitable as drug trafficking, but without the same sanctions. Join materials scientist Dr Anna Ploszajski to see how chemical forensics is being used to catch the culprits and bring them to justice.
About Dr Anna Ploszajski
Anna Ploszajski is a materials scientist, author, presenter and science comedian who is on a mission to get people fascinated by the ordinary stuff which makes up the world around us. Her book Handmade tells the story of materials through their use in arts and crafts.
Emerging minds in chemistry Alex Baker, University of Warwick
Our host for the day, Alex Baker will engage in captivating conversations with three emerging minds in chemistry in this interactive and inspiring panel session. These scientists are at the start of their careers and keen to share their passion for science with your students.
About Dr Alex Baker
Alex is an organic chemist with a particular interest in carbohydrates, polymers and nanoparticles. His work is used to design medical diagnostics with a particular focus on the developing world and fighting health inequalities.
Colourful Chemistry Peter Hoare, Newcastle University
Dive into the world of colour in this action-packed session. Reveal the science of colour recognition and perception, and observe a series of reactions to test the fundamentals of colour and light. Sit back and prepare to be amazed with some spectacular colour-changes, a whoosh and even the odd bang!
About Dr Peter Hoare
Peter has a chemistry PhD and over 20 years experience as a chemistry teacher. He is also an experienced chemistry A-level exam marker, education consultant and CPD trainer.
Amazing Atoms: Nuclear Science Can Change the World Tim Gregory, Nuclear Scientist
Nuclear science has the power to solve some of the greatest challenges, from achieving net zero, to curing cancers in new ways, to exploring outer space. Atoms may be small, but they can change the world.
About Dr Tim Gregory
Tim is a nuclear chemist whose lab work takes him to the forefront of clean energy production, nuclear medicine research, and space exploration. With a PhD in meteorite science he has appeared on BBC4’s The Sky at Night and the BBC2 series Astronauts: Do You Have What It Takes?
From Enemies of Eden to Neglected Tropical Disease - New Approaches for Snake Bite Diagnosis Alex Baker, University of Warwick
Every 5 minutes, 50 people are bitten by a snake worldwide. 4 will be permanently disabled. 1 will die. Snake envenomation is a neglected tropical disease that requires urgent attention. Explore the relationship between humans and snakes, discover the influence this has had on the modern medicine cabinet and how chemistry can help fight against tropical diseases.
About Dr Alex Baker
Alex is an organic chemist with a particular interest in carbohydrates, polymers and nanoparticles. His work is used to design medical diagnostics with a particular focus on the developing world and fighting health inequalities.