By Sarah Geegan
The science may be new, but the program itself is in its second year, after tremendous success in 2011-2012. The ' "" series, an outreach program aimed to strengthen UK's relationships with high school science programs, will once again engage teachers and youth in various scientific areas.
A succession of UK scientists will discuss emerging discoveries and exciting developments occurring now in the realm of science. Held in a casual round table format, professors from various disciplines and science teachers from Kentucky schools talk among themselves at these events, asking questions and discussing answers about new and emerging scientific knowledge.
Each session focuses on a new topic in one of the sciences. The interdisciplinary nature of the series makes its topics and level appropriate for a broad audience – students, faculty, and general public – as well as for teachers.
"The university already has a strong history in supporting science teachers in Kentucky Schools," said , the PIMSER sponsored director of outreach for the UK . "Now in its second year, this series is designed for high school and middle school science teachers, and all other interested learners, to learn more about the most recent discoveries, events and advancements in science today. It is outreach that teachers have asked the university to provide."
All sessions this spring take place at 6:30 p.m.:
Monday, Feb. 25: , UK : "What is Mass?" This event will cover the recent discovery and meaning of the elusive Higgs particle.
Thursday, March 14: Anne-Frances Miller, UK Department of ÌÇÐÄvlog¹Ù·½Èë¿Ú: "of Bits and Bonds: Hi-Tech Methods Predict the Newest Molecules." This event will display a glimpse of the symphony of reactions among the millions of molecules that underlie life.
Monday, March 25: , UK : "Gender on the Brain: The Science versus the Stereotypes." This event will examine what brain science does and does not tell us about differences in male and female brain development.
Monday, April 8: , UK : "The Challenges and Perils of Earthquake Prediction." This event will explore why it is so difficult to predict when earthquakes will occur and the current the scientific debate over Kentucky’s own New Madrid fault.
For more information on the series, topics, how to register to attend, and parking information, visit
There is no charge for events; the public is welcome, but should register to attend. Parking is free.
Events are also videotaped and later made available online. To view the 2012 videos and Q&A, .
For questions, see the ‘contact’ link on the web site, or email Sally Shafer at shafer@pa.uky.edu.
MEDIA CONTACT: Sarah Geegan, (859) 257-5365; sarah.geegan@uky.edu