Techniquest
ASDC26: 14th -15th October 2026 at Techniquest, Cardiff Bay, Wales
The ASDC national conference is the UK’s leading gathering for everyone who is passionate about inspiring curiosity, creativity and critical thinking through science and discovery. Each year we bring together hundreds of science engagement professionals to explore bold ideas, share best practice and build powerful connections.
For two days, the UK’s science and discovery centre community come together under one roof, and for the first time we’ll be in Wales at Techniquest in Cardiff, this year celebrating its 40th anniversary!
Founded in 1986, Techniquest is the UK’s longest-established purpose-built science discovery centre. Originating in Cardiff city centre, the centre then moved to Cardiff Bay the following year, and Techniquest became the country’s first science centre of its kind in 1995. The building was formerly a heavy engineering plant, and Paul Koralek of ABK Architects designed Techniquest around the framework of the original building. In 1999 its exhibits were awarded ‘Millennium Product’ status by the Design Council of the UK because of their excellence.
This energising and vibrant conference is a chance to shape the future of STEM education and outreach, build new partnerships across sectors, and showcase how science and discovery centres, museums and outreach organisations drive social impact on a national scale. Alongside ASDC members, we welcome STEM education specialists, public engagement professionals, researchers, industry leaders, cultural organisations, funders and innovators to join the conversation, focusing on this year's theme - Who cares about science?
We're pleased to announce the first keynote speaker, Professor Dame Angela McLean, Government Chief Scientific Adviser who will be addressing all delegates on Wednesday 14th October.
Angela McLean is also Head of the Government Science and Engineering Profession. Prior to this Angela was the Chief Scientific Adviser for the Ministry of Defence. Until April 2023, Angela was a Professor of Mathematical Biology in the Department of Zoology at Oxford University and a Fellow of All Souls College. Angela’s research interests lie in the use of mathematical models to aid our understanding of the evolution and spread of infectious agents.
Call for programme submissions
This year we’re asking the question: Who cares about science? With more probing questions around why should we care and what counts as science? If you work in the public engagement, science communication or the informal science education sector we invite you to submit a proposal to be considered for interactive sessions, hands-on workshops, a live lab or pop-up provocation as part of the conference programme.
Early bird tickets are now on sale!
Book your tickets now to save £35 with the early bird rate. Choose from ticket options for ASDC members, and standard tickets for non-members, plus group savings.
Exhibit at ASDC26
Exhibiting at the ASDC Conference 2026 puts you right at the centre of the conversation about STEM learning, inclusion, sustainability, research and innovation. Exhibitors typically include exhibition and experience designers, digital and technology innovators, and learning and engagement specialists working across informal STEM education. Delegates are also keen to meet with visitor experience, retail and operational providers, media and content platforms who bring fresh thinking and new cost-effective ways of working. We also welcome architects, capital project and infrastructure partners looking to work with science centres and museums, with a particular focus on sustainability and designing for the circular economy.
Delegates from the 2025 Conference at The National Science and Media Museum shared their biggest takeaways from the event:
“The conference is always energising and gives me hope that it's not just us facing the struggles that we're facing - and that other centres also have the same priorities and are striving for the same goals we are.”
“Creating legacy from engagement work is essential if as a sector we are to achieve long term benefits.”
Delegates from the 2024 Conference at The Royal Society shared their biggest takeaways from the event:
“The power of Science and Discovery Centres to touch lives in a deep, emotional way.”
“...ASDC is thriving and necessary. That the work of everyone attending the conference makes a difference. That work is actually being done that might change academic research culture.”