About this day
For A-level, IB, BTEC Level 3 and T Level chemistry students
Join us at Chemistry in Action this autumn where an engaging line-up of experienced scientists from academia and industry are ready to share their passion and insight across a range of exciting topics. From the fundamental building blocks of matter to the cutting-edge technologies that are changing our world, this inspiring day is sure to spark curiosity in your class.
This day also includes a special session on exam success, giving students practical tools and tips to help them excel. With interactive polls, opportunities to put questions directly to the speakers, and some live experiments to keep you on the edge of your seat – Chemistry in Action is a must for all KS5 chemistry students. Book now to secure your places!
Host: Alex Baker (University of Warwick) Exam Session: Peter Hoare (Newcastle University)
“A great day to get students thinking beyond the classroom and linking their studies to real life.”
— Didsbury High School, Autumn 2024 —
Programme & speakers
Amazing Atoms: Can Nuclear Science Change the World? Tim Gregory, Nuclear Scientist and Author
Nuclear science is at the heart of tackling some of today’s most pressing global challenges, yet it is often met with fear and scepticism. In this inspiring talk, Tim reveals the true potential of nuclear science. From helping us achieve net zero, to curing cancer in new ways, and even exploring outer space — these atoms may be tiny, but they have the power to 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 also appeared on BBC4’s The Sky at Night and the BBC2 series Astronauts: Do You Have What It Takes?
Healing Elements: The Role of Metals in Modern Medicine Rianne Lord, University of Warwick
Why haven’t diseases been cured? What makes a good drug? Join Rianne in a discussion on how metals like platinum, iron, and ruthenium play powerful roles in modern medicine. This talk will explore the chemistry behind metal-based drugs, their biological effects, and how the periodic table contributes to diagnosing, treating, and curing disease.
About Dr Rianne Lord
Rianne is an Associate Professor at the University of Warwick, where she teaches inorganic chemistry and leads a research group on the design of new metal-based drugs for the treatment of cancer.
Molecules for Tomorrow's Technologies Jess Wade, Materials Scientist, Imperial College London
Imagine mobile phones with batteries that can last for days or low-powered sensors that map brain activity. From solar fuel cells to quantum devices, tomorrow’s tech depends on advances in materials science and engineering. Jess explores how molecular properties like chirality can control electrons and photons, unlocking new possibilities in electronics, spintronics, and beyond.
About Dr Jess Wade
Jess is a materials scientist at Imperial College London where she studies chiral carbon-based semiconductors. She is a science communicator committed to improving diversity in science, both online and offline.
Are microorganisms better chemists than you? Michael Sulu, Lecturer in Biochemical Engineering, University College London
Microorganisms — tiny masters of chemistry, capable of building complex products with incredible precision… but are they better than humans? In this fascinating talk, Michael Sulu explores how microbes are transforming chemical production and the vital role they play in the chemical and biochemical industries.
About Dr Michael Sulu
Michael Sulu is a lecturer and Biochemical engineer; he dabbles in science communication and comedy, and his work is based on growing microorganisms. He focuses on the small (microscopic) stuff, so he doesn’t have time to worry about the big stuff!
When the Drugs Stop Working: The Uncensored Chemistry of Antibiotics Alex Baker, University of Warwick
We stand on the brink of the post-antibiotic age. Antimicrobial resistance presents a threat to humanity on the scale of global warming. But how did we get here? Join Alex as he cuts through the myths of the first antibiotics (spoiler it’s not penicillin). Together we will interrogate our antibiotic arsenal, the methods used by nature to fight back and what the future holds in our ongoing microbial war.
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.