With the start of the academic year last week, we welcomed a wave of new students, introduction events, and the semester’s first lectures. And there is a lot more on the agenda! As we enter into this semester, Studium Generale Groningen is offering a lineup of events – lectures, films, and debates – designed to introduce audiences to fresh topics in science, culture, and society.

We have selected several events related to science education and communication that we think will be of interest to our students. While these events are great for any science enthusiast, they offer first-year SEC students a perfect introduction to different forms of science communication and education, an opportunity to meet professionals in this field, and a chance to learn more about their work. Let’s take a look at what is coming up this semester. 

InScience Film Festival

This season, the InScience Film Festival Nijmegen is making its way to Groningen. The best science films of the year will be screened at the Forum. The lineup includes a documentary on start-ups bringing people back to life through AI avatars. Another film shows how a team of scientists uncovers the truth behind massacres and mass graves. A third story follows an international team at the Super-Kamiokande Neutrino Detector and their interactions with the local community of the mountain village. There is something for everyone – take your pick.

How Life Works: A lecture by Philip Ball

On September 19th, science writer Philip Ball will share insights from his most recent book, How Life Works, where he explores the latest scientific findings that challenge traditional views of biology. Learn more about the event here.

Sound for Brain Health: A lecture by Nina Kraus

October kicks off with a lecture from Nina Kraus, author of Of Sound Mind: How Our Brain Constructs a Meaningful Sonic World. In her talk, she will explore the impact of sound on our brains, from the benefits of music to the harmful effects of noise pollution. Find out more about the lecture here.

We hope these events will inspire you throughout the semester. Enjoy!