Science Summer School
Term I: 8 – 21 July 2012
Term II: 22 July – 4 August 2012
Programme Director: Dr Rob Wallach
University Senior Lecturer in Materials Science and Metallurgy; Fellow of King's College
The Science Summer School draws on the expertise of a range of senior academic advisors across a variety of scientific fields and is aimed at a broad audience. Subject areas will include physics, biology, astronomy, psychology and materials science. Undergraduates and graduates in sciences as well as teachers and other professionals are welcomed.
For those with a strong interest in science but little formal science training, we advise that you carefully read the books and articles suggested by the Course Directors.
The academic programme
Special subject courses
You choose one course for each week. Each courses meets five times during the week. You may choose to follow a particular track by selecting courses in related subject fields, but an interdisciplinary approach is also encouraged.
Term I
P02 From atoms to galaxies: the astronomer’s view
P03 The evolution of materials: an overview of Materials Science
P04 Themes in the philosophy of science
P05 Spectroscopy: matters of light and matter
P06 Keeping up with the Universe
P07 Is the human fetus Self or Non-Self?
P08 The evolution of intelligence: what do animals think about?
P09 Early stage drug discovery
Term II
P10 Introduction to social psychology
P11 Materials Science, energy generation and sustainability
P12 Building a brain: the organisation and development of the nervous system
P13 Order in disorder: mathematical theories
P14 Climate, energy and survival
P15 Codes, ciphers and secrets: an introduction to cryptography
P16 Hunger: is it all in your mind?
P17 Autism: a modern epidemic?
Plenary lectures
All participants will be registered for a course of plenary lectures entitled Survival. These talks constitute a wonderful opportunity to hear about current developments from acknowledged experts.
Workshops and visits
Workshops and visits to institutes and laboratories in Cambridge will offer an insight into 'cutting edge' research.
Evening lectures
Evening lectures will extend the plenary series, providing introductions to additional aspects of science or will be of general interest to members of this and other Summer Schools.