Northumbria to reveal why ‘Physics Matters’ to schoolchildren

Think Physics, at Northumbria University, is running a series of evening talks for North East sixth form pupils to show why physics is important and the career paths it can lead to.

Physics Matters! consists of five Thursday evening talks for students during October and November, promoting the diversity within this scientific field.

Each talk is focused around a different area of physics, and will take place at Northumbria University’s city campus. Students do not have to be accompanied by a member of staff; however they are welcome to come along.

Topics throughout the series include; dark matter, gravitational waves, photovoltaics and noise management. Three of the speakers are from Northumbria University, with others joining from Durham University and the University of Glasgow.

Dr Carol Davenport, Director of Think Physics, said: “Following last year’s success, Think Physics is proud to host another series of Physics Matters at Northumbria University. We have secured a dynamic and diverse range of speakers, covering topics as varied as solar physics, noise management and big data.

“Individually and collectively, the talks showcase the range of opportunities and pathways available to pupils who study A-Level Physics. Physics Matters will appeal particularly to A-Level Physics students and keen GCSE pupils.”

Think Physics is a collaborative cradle to career project, which uses physics in a creative and holistic way to inspire children, young people, their parents and teachers to increase the uptake of physics and STEM related subjects at A-level in the North East, especially among girls and other under-represented groups.

Only around 20% of A Level physics students are girls and this has not changed in 25 years, according to Institute of Physics research in 2014. Furthermore, females account for only 9% of all technology and engineering employees, therefore gender diversity remains a big issue in the sector. The Think Physics project was partly inspired by these statistics, planning to address this issue over the next few years and inspire the next generation of female scientists and engineers.

The series of talks are taking place throughout October and November. For dates and further details visit http://thinkphysics.org/physics-matters/