Experiments in the boundary zone: Science Gallery at Trinity College Dublin

Abstract

Universities have an ever-increasing need to engage the public with different areas of research, to justify public funding, to extend their relationships with local communities and to attract potential students. Science Gallery, a new initiative of Trinity College Dublin, is an experiment in public engagement with science and technology, bringing science into dialogue with the arts through exhibitions, events and festivals and acting as a sociable environment for face-to-face interactions and encounters between the public and scientists. Key challenges that will be discussed include: engaging the research community with the public, creating a two-way conversation, engaging young adults with science and technology and balancing research priorities with public interest.