Lightning Talk: A new culture of Science – one borough at a time.
In 2016 the Francis Crick Institute opened in Camden, a diverse central London borough, that, for the most part, really didn’t want this new centre for science in their backyard. This is the story of how we set out to change hearts and minds and became a trusted neighbour. A big part of this has been working with Camden’s schools to change young people’s experience of science by making it: more practical ; more inclusive and equitable; more relevant and inspiring. But achieving that cultural change in our borough has required us to rethink the way we engage; creating space for our audiences to engage with science was not enough. Like all good friends, we listen and work together with people on the things that matter to them. And the result – we are firmly part of their community; genuinely valued; impacting things from science education and health awareness to local employment and how parents engage with their children. Definitely no longer the unwanted ‘slug’ on the doorstep!
Biography
Clare Davy is the Education Manager at the Francis Crick Institute. After a career in research, ranging from soil bacteria genetics to the molecular interactions between genital wart viruses and their hosts, Clare moved into public engagement seven years ago. Since then she’s been grappling with what it means to engage and inspire children with STEM whilst raising a couple of her own. Clare enjoys getting up to her elbows in messy science and mind-blowing discussions. She took part in the ASDC’s Emerging Leaders programme this year and is currently applying what she learnt to revamping the Crick’s outreach programme.