BU Research Blog

Calls for proposals for British Science Festival 2020 are now open!

Taking place from the 8-12 September in Chelmsford and Essex, the Festival will be hosted by Anglia Ruskin University.

Each year, thousands of people come together to celebrate the latest developments in research and engage in open discussion about issues affecting our culture and society. Through a mixture of traditional and creative formats, it focuses on showcasing cutting-edge science and technology.

Festival proposals should be aimed at non-specialist adults (16+) with a broad interest in science. All events are free to attend.

There are two ways to get involved…

Award Lecture nominations

Are you, or do you know, a promising early career researcher?

Every year nominations are requested for the seven Award Lectureships available to promising early career academics, skilled at engaging people with their research. These Award Lectures aim to promote open and informed discussion of science and related disciplines. The selected candidates will have the opportunity to present their winning Award Lecture at the 2020 Festival. To get an idea of what it’s like to be an Award Lecturer, check out the blog from one of the 2018 winners.

Nomination deadline: 17:00, 6 January 2020

Open call for proposals

The open call is an opportunity for anyone to submit an event idea.

Festival proposals should be aimed at non-specialist adults (16+) with a broad interest in science. During the week, Festival events will take place in the daytime on the university campus, followed by events throughout the city each evening. To close the Festival, there will be a final celebration over the weekend. The programme is aimed at a range of formats from talks to drop-in activities and creative content that challenges perceptions of what science is and can be.

Please submit one proposal per event.

Proposal deadline: 17:00, 17 February 2020

More information about the above, including the application process and FAQs, can be found on the website

People who are thinking about submitting a nomination or proposal are strongly encouraged to chat with the Festival team before completing the form(s). If you’re interested please contact anna.woolman@britishscienceassociation.org

Alternatively you can contact Adam Morris (Engagement Officer) if you would like advice on planning or submitting your application or to discuss ideas.

And finally – a reminder about the upcoming UK Science Festivals Network conference taking place in London on the 19 November. Perfect for anyone working or interested in the science Festival, or wider engagement sector. More information and tickets available here