Engagers’ Digest 5/06/2014

In this edition:

University of Bristol engagement

 

1. Two student internship positions in the Centre for Public Engagement – application deadline 23 June, 9am

2. Applications open for event proposals for Thinking Futures Festival – deadline 3 July

3. Schools public engagement training (introductory session) – 3 July

 

Events and training

 

4. Breaking news and building bridges: how journalists and academics can be friends – 10 June 2014

5. People & Research West of England (PRWE) course: Involving the public in your research – 25 June

6. Increasing the impact of health research ­­through policy engagement – 30 June

 

News and opportunities

 

7. Find out what your brain looks like when you listen to songs – participate in the 5Hz project throughout June

8. Communicate science in a new way! Science busking at Festival of Nature – 14 June

9. Volunteer opportunities with The Big Bang Fair – 26 June

10. Volunteers needed for At-Bristol activities – 27 & 28 June

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Engagers’ Digest 14/05/2014

In this edition:

University of Bristol engagement

1. Day in a life of a PhD student: Universities Week Twitter project – deadline for expressions of interest 6 June

2. Paid evaluation work at Bristol Festival of Nature – 14 & 15 June

3. Thinking Futures Festival: deadline 3 July

Funding and awards

4. Science Communication Awards 2014 – deadline 30 May

5. Wellcome Trust People and Society Awards – deadlines July and October 

6. The Biochemical Society scientific outreach grants – deadline September

7. British Ecological Society outreach grants – deadline 8 September

Events and training

8. Research in context: training and training the trainer day – 17 & 26 June

News and opportunities

9. Volunteers required for Bridgwater Science Festival, 30 May

10. Volunteers required for Women in Science workshop, 20 June

11. Find out what your brain looks like when you listen to songs – participate in the 5Hz project

12. Breaking boundaries: thinking differently about public involvement in research – deadline for comments 28 May

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Engagers’ Digest 7/4/2014

In this edition:

University of Bristol engagement

1.     Bristol Food Connections volunteering opportunity: apply by 17 April

2.     New public engagement stories: gender & violence, philosophical blogging and nanoscience for all

Funding and awards

3.     Society of Biology regional grant scheme: deadline 14 April

4.     Royal College of Pathologists public engagement innovation grant scheme: deadline 30 June

5.     Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) public engagement large awards: deadline 6 November

Events and training

6.     British Science Association (BSA) - Science communication conference: 1-2 May, booking deadline 27 April

7.     National Coordinating Centre for Public Engagement (NCCPE) - After the Research Excellence Framework (REF): taking stock: 6 May

8.     Bristol Institute for Research in the Humanities and Arts (BIRTHA) – Mind, brain and behaviour, is there a best way to understand pain and healing: 7 May

9.     Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) - Collaborative skills training programme – call for participants: deadline 15 May

News and opportunities

10.  Festival of Nature – naturalists wanted

11.  Festival of Nature – Wild About Chew

12.  Pervasive Media Studio’s graduate and new talent competition: deadline for applications 25 April

13.  London Science Festival: open application deadline 30 April

14.  Organise an event for National Women in Engineering Day: ongoing until 23 June

15.  The Guardian: University public engagement: 20 tips from experts in the sector

16.  British Science Association: Public attitudes to science survey results

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Engagers' Digest 23/5/13

In this edition:

University of Bristol engagement
1. Volunteering at Bristol Festival of Nature: 15-16 June
2. Paid evaluation work at Bristol Festival of Nature: 15-16 June
3. PolicyBristol: influencing policy through world-class research

Funding
4. The Classical Association grants: deadlines 1 June and 1 September
5. Connected Communities Funding call: deadline 16 July
6. Wellcome Trust Broadcast Development Awards: deadline 19 July
7. Wellcome Trust People Awards: deadline 26 July
8. The Biochemical Society Scientific Outreach grants: deadline 30 September

Events
9. Public Engagement event at University of Exeter: 18 June

Other news
10. Wanted: Magician in Residence: deadline 10 June
11. Getting involved with ’Bristopia’, At-Bristol: 21 June, 6.30pm
12. Volunteering opportunity for The Big Bang South West: 27 June, Exeter
13. Research Fortnight: How to become a policy savvy researcher

University of Bristol engagement

1. Volunteering at Bristol Festival of Nature: 15-16 June
We are looking for staff and students to help out at the Festival of Nature, the UK's largest free celebration of the natural world, which takes place on the 15 - 16 June. With hands-on exhibits and activities, the Bristol Festival of Nature gives wildlife enthusiasts of all ages the opportunity to explore, enjoy and get close to the natural world in the heart of the city.
Volunteers can help out on a variety of University of Bristol exhibits on themes such as urine infections and microbes, collective complexity, and plant pathology. There's also the chance to volunteer for the Seeds of Change project tent where there will be a range of artistic activities related to the project. For further information please contact Miriea Bes, Centre for Public Engagement, on email: mireia.bes@bristol.ac.uk or tel: 0117 3318315.
Web: http://www.bnhc.org.uk/home/festival.html.

2. Paid evaluation work at Bristol Festival of Nature: 15-16 June
We are looking for someone to manage and coordinate a team of evaluators during the Bristol Festival of Nature festival. You will be paid around £125 for the weekend (lunch and refreshments will be provided); previous experience in carrying out survey work is required.
We also have a few remaining places for people to carry out surveys of the festival-goers as part of the evaluation of the festival. Evaluators will be paid £2.50 per survey (which should be about £50 per day); lunch and refreshments will also be provided and you will have a chance to experience the Festival. Previous experience is not required as training will be provided. This is a great opportunity to gain experience in conducting surveys, especially for those who work with public participants as part of their research.
For further information please contact Kate Miller, Centre for Public Engagement, on email: kate.miller@bristol.ac.uk or tel: 0117 3318321.
Web: http://www.bnhc.org.uk/home/festival.html.

3. PolicyBristol: influencing policy through world-class research
The PolicyBristol website has gone live http://www.bris.ac.uk/policybristol/.
PolicyBristol is a new initiative within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Law. It will be a key vehicle for strengthening our contribution to effective policy development and delivery. The project will be launched publicly later in the year. The team would welcome your engagement in the project, contributions to the blog and feedback on the website. Deborah Wilson, d.wilson@bristol.ac.uk, is Director and Georgina Brereton the Coordinator, georgina.brereton@bristol.ac.uk. Funding is available to support policy engagement activities.
https://www.bris.ac.uk/fssl/current-staff/research-information/policybristol/.


Funding

4. The Classical Association grants: deadlines 1 June and 1 September
The Classical Association awards grants with a total value in the region of £60,000 each year to classical projects. Outreach events are eligible if they tend towards the promotion of public awareness of the importance of classics and/or support classics in schools. Activities might include: public talks or small interactive sessions on the Classical world, reading and discussion groups, and theatrical performances.
For more information see web: http://www.classicalassociation.org/grants.html

5. Connected Communities Funding call: deadline 16 July
The Arts and Humanities Research Council, working in partnership with the Heritage Lottery Fund, wishes to invite applications for a small number of co-ordinating centres to support community engagement activities to connect academic and public histories of the First World War and its legacy. The centres will be expected to act as beacons for community outreach, engagement and collaboration between research organisations and researchers and community groups who are interested in researching and commemorating the First World War, the broader historical and cultural context of the War and its legacy and impact.
If you are interested in being involved or would like more information, contact Valerie Aspin/Jean Pretlove on email: rdm-arts@bristol.ac.uk at the earliest opportunity. Participation to this scheme will need to be approved by the Faculty.

6. Wellcome Trust Broadcast Development Awards: deadline 19 July
The Broadcast Development Awards support the development of broadcast proposals in any genre that engage the audience with issues around biomedical science in an innovative, entertaining and accessible way. The Trust are interested in funding individuals and organisations with brilliant early-stage ideas for TV, radio, new media or gaming projects. The funding, of up to £10,000 will enable these ideas to be developed into high-impact, well-researched proposals that can be used to secure a broadcast platform and/or further funding.
For more information see web: http://www.wellcome.ac.uk/funding/public-engagement/funding-schemes/broadcast-development-awards/index.htm

7. Wellcome Trust People Awards: deadline 26 July
People Awards are for innovative and creative projects that encourage public debate and understanding of biomedical science. They can fund small-to-medium-sized one-off projects or projects that pilot new ideas with an aim to scale up or become sustainable following the grant, or they can part-fund larger projects (up to and including £30 000).
For more information see web: http://www.wellcome.ac.uk/Funding/Public-engagement/Funding-schemes/People-and-Society-Awards/index.htm

8. The Biochemical Society Scientific Outreach grants: deadline 30 September
Grants are available to support activities and events that help communicate the excitement of molecular bioscience to young people and the community. Applications are invited for sums up to £1000 to assist with the direct costs associated with an event and expenses incurred (e.g. transport and/or teacher cover).
For more information see web: http://www.biochemistry.org/Grants/EducationalGrants/ScientificOutreachGrants.aspx


Events and training

9. Public Engagement event at University of Exeter: 18 June
Many research funders are increasing their requirements for public engagement, but what does this really mean when it comes to writing a research proposal or delivering a project? Join in this event organised by the University of Exeter and have the opportunity to speak directly with the research councils and trusts.
For more information see web: http://www.exeter.ac.uk/news/events/details/index.php?event=1054


Other news

10. Wanted: Magician in Residence: deadline 10 June
Watershed and the University of Bristol are disrupting normal residency service and inviting a magician, artist, illusionist or designer to join them for a spell of exploration into creative ideas that blend technology, interaction design, magic and illusion.
Suggested skills: Disappearing interfaces, conjuring circuits, pulling robotic rabbits out of haptic hats.
Further information:
http://www.watershed.co.uk/get-involved/opportunities/2013-06-10/wanted-magician-in-residence/

11. Getting involved with ’Bristopia’, At-Bristol: 21 June, 6.30pm
'Bristopia' is a popular After Hours events where adults get to experience the At-Bristol science centre without the kids. The theme for ‘Bristopia’ is the science of sustainability, climate change and specifically Bristol’s future as a green city. At-Bristol would like to invite other organisations and individuals to participate in the evening to create a broad picture of Bristol as green city, to include the latest thinking and to give you the opportunity to engage with this important and influential audience.
To get involved as a speaker, expert, exhibitor or helper please contact:
Email: chris.dunford@at-bristol.org.uk
http://www.at-bristol.org.uk/1740.html

12. Volunteering opportunity for The Big Bang South West: 27 June, Exeter
The Big Bang is the largest celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths for young people in the UK. The Big Bang South West at the University of Exeter on 27th June needs volunteers to support the events team in a number of roles.
Further information from: http://www.thebigbangfair.co.uk/nearme/volunteer.cfm
email: volunteers@thebigbangfair.co.uk
 
13. Research Fortnight: How to become a policy savvy researcher
This resource lists the support available to researchers to help them gain a better understanding of policy making and how best to bring their work to the attention of those who should be using it.
http://www.researchprofessional.com/0/rr/news/uk/careers/2013/4/how-to-become-a-policy-savvy-researcher.html;jsessionid=51481BE4557227CF4BC4797ED2C29EE7

Engagers' Digest 9/4/13

In this edition:
University of Bristol engagement

1. Applications for the Vice-Chancellor's Impact Award: deadline 5pm 7 June
2. Outreach in the Faculty of Medical and Veterinary Sciences

Events

1. Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) training – 2 events: 17 April
2. Bright Club Bristol: 6 June (training 7 May)

Other news

1. ESRC media training for social science researchers
2. The 2013 Wellcome Trust Science Writing Prize: deadline 28 April
3. Society of Biology’s Science Communication Awards 2013: deadline 31 May
4. Society for Applied Microbiology Communication Award: deadline 14 June
5. Volunteering for Bristol.99/BioBlitz and Bristol Festival of Nature

Engagers' Digest 19/2/13

In this edition:

University of Bristol engagement

1. Bristol Festival of Nature
2. Mayor’s Bristol Genius Award 2013: nominations open until 15 April
3. University of Bristol Engagement awards: deadline 11 March

Funding

1. Applications for the 2013 L’Oréal-UNESCO UK and Ireland For Women in Science Fellowships: deadline 15 March
2. British Society for Immunology small grants: deadline 1 April
3. Institute of Physics' Public Engagement Grant Scheme 2013 round 2: closing date 22 April
4. Wellcome Trust Society Awards: deadline 26 April
5. The Biochemical Society outreach grants: deadline 29 April
6. Wellcome Trust Small Arts Awards: deadline 28 June
7. Royal Society of Chemistry public activities small grants scheme

Events

1. British Science Association Media Fellowships: deadline 11 March
2. Ethics in Community-based participatory research workshop, 11 March, London
3. Connected Communities Showcase Event: 12 March, London

 Other news

1. Opportunity to be a school governor at Birdwell School in Long Ashton
2. Outreach opportunity - Future World Day at Cotham School: 15-18 July
3. Outreach opportunity - English Language at Cotham School

Engagers’ Digest 26/06/12

In this edition:

University of Bristol engagement

1. Job opportunity - Public Engagement Officer: closing date 9 July 2012
2. Bristol Festival of Nature 2012

Funding

1. Wellcome Trust Peoples Awards: deadline 27 July
2. Nominet Trust Digital Edge Programme: deadline 5 September
3. Royal Academy of Engineering Ingenious grants: deadline 21 September 2012
4. RCUK School-University Partnerships Initiative: deadline 25 September 2012
5. Educational Endowment Fund: deadline 5 October

Events

1. Festival in the forest: Up to Nature: 29 June – 1July
2. ‘Get involved in shaping research and building partnerships’ workshop: 12 July
3. Bright Club Bristol: 23 August 2012 (training 27 July)

Other news

1. Editor of new magazine on merging science and art is looking for writers

Engagers' Digest 01/06/12

In this edition:

University of Bristol engagement

1.    Paid evaluation work at Bristol Festival of Nature

2.    Engagement Awards

3.    Public Engagement videos

4.    Speaking opportunity at the Bristol Leadership Programme

5.    Patterns of Change: 13 June, 8pm

Funding

1.    Wellcome Trust Small Arts Awards: deadline 27 June

Events

1.    Standing up for Science workshop: 15 June, London

2.    Evaluating Impacts of Non-formal Learning and Public Engagement with Schools and Young People seminar: 29 June, London 

3.    BBSRC Public Engagement Training

4.    Scholarly Outreach, Impact and Outcomes: 28/29 June

Other news

1.    Volunteering at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition 2012: 3-8 July, London

2.    Volunteering at World of Wildlife at WOMAD: 27-29 July

3.    Volunteering at the British Science Festival: 4-9 September, Aberdeen

4.    Physics busking in Cornwall: 6-10 August

Engagers’ Digest 14/05/12

In this edition:

University of Bristol engagement

1.    Volunteering at Know your Bristol events

2.    Volunteering (and paid work) at Bristol Festival of Nature

Events

1.    Workshop on student involvement in STEM communication activities: 25 May 2012, Bath

2.    Science cafe - Making blood: 28 May 2012, Bristol

3.    Community Partner Summit: 25 – 26 June 2012, Bristol

4.    NCCPE Engage 2012 conference – call for contributors and session convenors

Other news

1.    RCUK research career case studies

2.    Outreach opportunity – looking for keynote speaker: Skirting Science

Engagers’ Digest 28/03/12

In this edition:

University of Bristol engagement

1. Schools' Interaction Survey
2. Discover wrap-up
3. Bristol Festival of Nature – call for stand ideas

Funding

1. The Science in Society Programme Small Awards Scheme: deadline 12 April 2012
2. Applications for ESRC Festival of Social Science: 4 May 2012

Events

1. Science Cafe: How inflammation polices heart disease – 8pm 30 April 2012
2. A road map to involving patients in your research – 25 May 2012
3. New dates for Bright Club Bristol

Other news

1. Volunteers needed for The Times Cheltenham Science Festival: deadline 4 April 2012
2. People and Research South West - looking for examples of public involvement in research: deadline 16 April 2012
3. Communicate 2011 - Nature, People, Economics: conference summary available online

University of Bristol engagement

1. Schools' Interaction Survey
The ways in which the University interacts with schools and colleges is vitally important for our relationship with the city/region, in attracting potential students and also as part of the work of many colleagues. We would like to understand more fully the breadth of engagement activity with schools and colleges in the local area to inform and support any further developments. Please help by completing a short questionnaire (this should take less than ten minutes and you will have the chance to win a new iPad or the cash equivalent towards conference travel expenses. If you have questions about the survey please email wan.yee@bristol.ac.uk (Graduate School of Education, Social Sciences & Law) or maggie.leggett@bristol.ac.uk (Centre for Public Engagement, Communications & Marketing).
The survey can be found at web:
https://www.survey.bris.ac.uk/gsoe/interaction/

2. Discover wrap-up
Thanks very much to everyone who took part in Discover earlier this month - we are making plans for a proper thank-you so watch this space for further details shortly. In the meantime we’d be very grateful if exhibitors and volunteers could provide us with some feedback by completing our online survey
For exhibitors: http://www.survey.bris.ac.uk/cpe/discover2012res
For volunteers: http://www.survey.bris.ac.uk/cpe/discover2012vol

We have waved goodbye to Dane Comerford who has moved to take up a new role at the University of Cambridge. Replacing Dane for six months is Becky Jones from the School of Biochemistry. She can be contacted on email: rebecca.jones@bristol.ac.uk tel: 0117 33 18315.

3. Festival of Nature – call for stand ideas
The annual Bristol Festival of Nature is being held 15-17 June this year. We are looking for any new stand ideas from across all departments to go in the University of Bristol tent at the Festival. The stand can be linked to ‘nature’ through any avenue, from atoms and cells, ecology and environment, sustainable engineering, even landscape painting. We want to showcase as much of the University’s research and teaching as possible. In addition, if anyone has previously been involved with the Festival or Discover, and wants to adapt or expand an existing stand then please let us know. If you have any ideas or want to know more, get in touch with Becky Jones by email: rebecca.jones@bristol.ac.uk tel: 0117 33 18315.

Funding

1. The Science in Society Programme Small Awards Scheme: deadline 12 April 2012
The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) has announced that its Science in Society Programme Small Awards Scheme is now open for applications. The scheme provides grants for small, local or 'pilot' projects promoting STFC science and technology. Anyone can apply, including grant-funded research groups, STFC research facility users, schools, museums, etc. Awards range from £500 to £10,000 and the expenditure can go towards materials, salaries and travel & subsistence.
http://www.stfc.ac.uk/Public+and+Schools/1396.aspx

2. Applications for ESRC Festival of Social Science: 4 May 2012
The call for applications to run events for the tenth annual Economic and Social Research Council's Festival of Social Science is now open. This year the festival will run from 3-10 November. There are two types of application:

• for £2,000 support from the ESRC to run an event - closing date 4 May 2012.
• for an event to be included in the Festival programme but without ESRC funding - closing date 11 May 2012.

http://www.esrc.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/festival/

If you are from the University of Bristol and considering making an application please could you contact Kate Miller at the Centre for Public Engagement on email: kate.miller@bristol.ac.uk tel: 0117 33 18321

Events

1. Science Cafe: How inflammation polices heart disease – 8pm 30 April 2012
With speaker Dr Jason Johnson of the Bristol Heart Institute
Venue: Tobacco Factory See web: http://bscia-bsba.org.uk/science-cafe/

2. A road map to involving patients in your research – 25 May 2012
This event will provide researchers with an opportunity to gain insight into the importance and benefits of patient and public involvement (PPI) as well as practical information to help you facilitate PPI within your own research. Our patient panel members will also be attending and can help advise. A free event, 9am - 2pm, Bath Hilton Hotel To book contact Sarah Roberts email: s.e.roberts@bath.ac.uk
http://www.bath.ac.uk/health/news/news_0049.html

3. New dates for Bright Club
Bristol Bright Club is the thinking person's variety night - the show that takes folks from the region's top academic institutions and turns them into stand-up comedians for one night only. Organisers of Bright Club are looking for researchers from local universities to perform alongside professional comedians and musicians for three new shows with themes below (although un-themed contributions are also welcome):

• 31 May ‘The Nature of Things’ (training 11 May, 3-5 pm) - biology, zoology, botany, environment (although ‘things’ leaves it open to pretty much whatever you like)
• 23 August ‘Super’ (training date TBC) – anything tenuously involving 'super' as a prefix (supercooling, supernovas, superheroes, supermassive, superpositions...); astronomy, literature or media research involving science fiction or similar
• 6 December ‘Vintage’ (training date TBC) - archaeology, conservation (of textiles, buildings etc), history, food & drink related research, fashion, research involving older people, dinosaurs. Further information from web: http://brightclubbristol.wordpress.com email: Hayley at hayley@soundsofscience.co.uk

Other news

1. Volunteers needed for The Times Cheltenham Science Festival: deadline 4 April 2012
The Festival is taking place from 12-17 June and will need volunteers throughout and for set-up and break-down. This is a great opportunity for students if they would like to meet some of the world's leading scientists, get involved with one of the best public science festivals and gain experience of running events. On offer to volunteers is: accommodation and food; travel expenses; free entry into events. Applications forms are available at web: http://www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/jobs with a deadline of 4th April. If you have any questions please contact email: volunteers@cheltenhamfestivals.com or call tel: 01242 775206.

The Times Cheltenham Science Festival is a six-day extravaganza of science, engineering, technology and arts, with events for adults, schools and for the whole family. Aimed purely at the general public, the festival covers a range of topics from regenerative medicine and superconductivity to the science of honey and the power of sleep.

2. People and Research South West - looking for examples of public involvement in research: deadline 16 April 2012
People and Research South West is a collaborative initiative to support researchers to involve the public in health and social care research, and to support the public in getting involved. They are currently collating local examples of public involvement in research, top tips for involvement, contact details and links. Do you have an example of public involvement in research you would like to include? The submission form is available at:
http://www.crncc.nihr.ac.uk/about_us/ccrn/western/ppi/prsw/case_studies.htm
Further information from Catrin Richards email: catrin.richards@uwe.ac.uk tel: (0117) 3288809

3. Communicate 2011 - Nature, People, Economics: conference summary available online
This conference summary brings together videos, presentations, and written contributions from an inspirational line up of environmental thinkers and communicators. Visit web: http://communicate2011.bnhc.org.uk/

Engagers’ Digest – 23/6/11

The Bristol Festival of Nature took place last weekend and despite a rainy start was a great success. Two University of Bristol tents buzzed with researchers and members of the public sharing their views and knowledge, and a range of creative activities captivated children. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to the Festival.

In the Autumn term we're looking forward to Engage 2011 - the annual University of Bristol conference about public engagement. Registration has just opened and further details are available below.

Finally, if you are in London this weekend you might want to drop in to the Science Museum to see Bristol neuroscientists ‘knitting neurons’ as part of the Museum’s Stitched Science exhibition.

Please feel free to distribute this bulletin onwards to interested colleagues, particularly if you are a Departmental Engagers Rep.

In this edition of the Digest:

1. Making the most of Festivals - how to involve university students and staff: 12 July 2011 [all fields; all levels]
2. University of Bristol Engage Conference: 29 September 2011 [all fields; all levels]
3. Science Shop Autumn School: 3-4 October 2011 [all fields; all levels]
4. NCCPE Engage 2011 National Conference: 29-30 November 2011 [all fields; all levels]
5. JISCMail list for Student-Community Engagement [all fields; all levels]
6. Resources for Student-Community Engagement [all fields; all levels]
7. The Guardian Higher Education Network live chat on the wider value of University [all fields; all levels]

1. Making the most of Festivals - how to involve university students and staff: 12 July 2011
The National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement (NCCPE) commissioned the University of Cambridge’s Community Affairs team and Dr Eric Jensen of the University of Warwick to explore the involvement of universities in festivals. The research included a survey of festival organisers and participants, to gather evidence on the various ways that festivals are developed and delivered, and the role of students in this activity.

The NCCPE then developed a range of resources to showcase effective practice, and to help universities and festival organisers involve university staff and students in successful public engagement. At this all day workshop, we will present the results of our research, launch our new resources, showcase studies of different activities, and provide opportunities for delegates to share their own ideas and experiences. The event is open to anyone with an interest in engaging the public through festivals although due to demand a waiting list is currently in operation.

Venue: Newton Room, The Pitt Building, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RP. For more information please go to: http://www.publicengagement.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/making-most-festivals

2. University of Bristol Engage Conference: 29 September 2011
Join colleagues and partners on 29 September 2011 at Engage – the University of Bristol’s annual conference about public engagement. Hear about and discuss the changing landscape of public engagement, get inspired by colleagues’ activities and meet and exchange ideas with potential partners over an informal networking lunch.

Guest speaker: Sir Roland Jackson, Chief Executive of the British Science Association and Chair of the BBSRC Bioscience for Society Strategy Panel.
Date: Thursday 29 September 2011, 10:30 am – 2:30 pm
Venue: Wills Memorial Building Reception Room, Queen’s Road, Bristol, BS8 1RJ
Registration is now open http://www.survey.bris.ac.uk/cpe/engage_2011 and further information available from cpe-info@bristol.ac.uk

The Centre for Public Engagement will also be holding further events focussed on ‘Public engagement and research impact’ and ‘Getting started in public engagement’ later in the Autumn Term.

3. Science Shop Autumn School: 3-4 October 2011
European funding allows the Living Knowledge Network to offer a free ‘Autumn School’ to all those interested in operating a Science Shop, or Community-Based Research Office. It will take place in Dublin, Ireland, on Monday 3rd and Tuesday 4th of October, 2011, for two full days. Participation is free; though you do need to cover your own travel and stay. Language will be English.

Science Shops provide independent, participatory research support in response to concerns expressed by civil society groups. They cover all academic and engineering disciplines, so ‘science’ should be taken in its broadest meaning. They are also not ‘shops’ in the traditional sense of the word. Science Shops are small entities that carry out research in a wide range of disciplines – usually free of charge – on behalf of (or with) citizens and civil society organisations. That Science Shops respond to civil society’s needs for expertise and knowledge is a key element that distinguishes them from other knowledge transfer mechanisms.

The Autumn School is relevant to those who would like to structure and embed community-university engagement more broadly in their local (or regional) context, or set up any form of co-operation in research with civil-society organisations.

Further information from Dr. Henk Mulder, Science Shop, University of Groningen, The Netherlands, h.a.j.mulder@rug.nl
http://www.scienceshops.org

4. NCCPE Engage 2011 National Conference: 29-30 November 2011
The second National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement (NCCPE) national conference will bring together people from across the UK to celebrate HEI public engagement, and explore ways to support it more effectively. A call for workshops and case studies will be issued shortly. Further information from http://www.publicengagement.ac.uk/

5. JISCMail list for Student-Community Engagement
The NCCPE has launched a new network for academics and practitioners to discuss the role of Public Engagement within the taught curriculum. They hope that it will be a forum to discuss research and policy papers, share events and updates that relate to this area of practice, which broadly speaking can be described as informal and formal experiential education where learning emerges through a cycle of action and reflection. It encompasses a wide variety of practices including service-learning, community-based learning, learning-linked volunteering, student-community engagement and scholarship of engagement. It is hoped that this group will become an interdisciplinary forum for discussion. Cross cutting, or boundary spanning posts, research and news are particularly welcomed, as are those that look more closely at particular areas of practice.

The list is a sub-list of the NCCPE’s Public Engagers Network (NCCPE-PEN). Please register or sign up here: https://www.jiscmail.ac.uk/cgi-bin/webadmin?A0=NCCPE-SCE

6. Resources for Student-Community Engagement
The NCCPE have also created a Public Library of a selection of papers and research related to this area which everyone is welcome to contribute to: http://www.mendeley.com/groups/1052531/student-community-engagement/papers/ There is also a range of resources on student volunteering and community engagement, derived from our vinspired students project, on the NCCPE website at: http://www.publicengagement.ac.uk/about/vinspired-students

7. The Guardian Higher Education Network live chat on the wider value of University
As part of Universities Week The Guardian organised a live chat on communicating the wider value of a university with 8 panel members. They asked – ‘Universities have to persuade their communities that higher education matters. But just how?’ A record of the discussions and all 143 comments can be found on the chat site. http://www.guardian.co.uk/higher-education-network/blog/2011/jun/09/communicating-value-of-higher-education

Volunteering with Bristol Natural History Consortium

Volunteering opportunities with the Bristol Natural History Consortium

The University is going to have a strong presence at the Festival of Nature 2011, and is involved with the Bioblitz and with Meet the Species. Any help you can give would be brilliant, and you might even end up at Glastonbury Festival!

Do you have a love of wildlife and natural history? Or do you just enjoy getting involved in the city, helping people and meeting lots of new faces? If so, why not volunteer with the Bristol Natural History Consortium (BNHC) for a great experience this summer?

Bristol BioBlitz 2011

We need volunteers for Bristol BioBlitz at Tyntesfield Estate National Trust, Wraxall on 20^th-21^st May. During this free entry public event, we will be trying to find as many species of wildlife as possible on the estate against the clock and need experienced naturalists to give guided walks and help with species identification, guides to show people around and offer help with using identification keys and stewards to help run the event.

www.bnhc.org.uk/home/bioblitz/bristolbioblitz/get-involved

Bristol Festival of Nature 2011

We also need volunteers to cover a variety of activities at the Festival of Nature at Bristol Harbourside from 16^th to 19^th June. This is the UK’s largest celebration of nature and will see over 100 organisations providing activities and entertainment, a local foods market and the opportunity to rub shoulders with some giants of the wildlife and conservation industry.

www.bnhc.org.uk/home/festival/volunteer

Meet the Species – coming soon!

Keep an eye out for volunteering opportunities around the country with our new Meet the Species events running as part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad.

Events are completely FREE to attend so please bring along your friends and families to unleash Bristol’s wild side this summer.

Engagers' Digest - 25/2/10

Dear all,

Welcome to another Digest. National Science and Engineering Week and the Festival of Social Science are nearly upon us - 12-21 March. University of Bristol researchers will be at the Mall Galleries, Broadmead for Discover, but many other events are planned around the city. Check the events listings via the links above.

Other news:

1. Engaging Citizens: Research, Media and the Public - 16 March 2010

This free workshop in Milton Keynes, organised by the National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement, aims to stimulate discussion about the role of the media in engaging the public with research. More information and registration here.

2. Universities Assocoation of Lifelong Learning - Annual Conference - 14-16 March 2010
From widening participation to employer engagement: lifelong learning in higher education. Last chance to register - http://www.uall.ac.uk/

3. Cheltenham Science Festival - Volunteers needed - deadline 29th March 2010

The Times Cheltenham Science Festival is looking for volunteers for 7-14 June 2010. This is a great opportunity to meet leading scientists, gain event and engagement experience, and take part in a world-leading public science festival. Full details in a separate blog post; email luiza.patorski@cheltenhamfestivals.com

4. Institute of Physics' Public Engagement Grant Scheme - deadline 7 May 2010

Do you have a fantastic idea for making physics accessible? Apply for a Public Engagement Grant from IOP. They are worth up to £1000 and aim to support physics-based public outreach activities throughout 2010.
Application forms and guidelines for the scheme are available online at www.iop.org/activity/outreach/, or by e-mailing physics.society@iop.org.

5. National Co-ordinating Centre - Public Engagement Network

Are you interested in joining an online network of people passionate about public engagement and higher education institutions? The PEN is an open forum to raise news, issues and opportunities for discussion. The NCCPE will be posting up news digests every couple of weeks to this list and hopefully encouraging many others to contribute. More information here

And finally, a reminder of those important dates:

Discover 2010: Free, family-focused exhibition celebrating research in the heart of Bristol. 11-13 March, The Mall Galleries Broadmead, and Cabot Circus (13 March). Even if you don't have a stall at Discover, come and support your colleagues and see public engagement in action. To volunteer to help contact Dane Comerford

Bioblitz: Bristol Natural History Consortium's race against the clock to find as many animal and plant species as possible in the Blaise Castle Estate. 21-22 May 2010. We need biologists/naturalists and other volunteers. Contact Philippa to get involved.

Festival of Nature: Europe's largest celebration of the natural world on the Harbourside. June 12-13 2010, with a schools day on Friday June 11. Contact Philippa or Dane to get involved with a stall, activity or talk.

Engagers' Digest - 10/2/10

Dear colleagues,

Welcome to another edition of the Engagers' Digest. We have a lot of new people who have joined the list - particularly from the Doctoral Training Centres - welcome. Please do send me any news or engagement opportunities that you would like to circulate to the list.

A number of important dates for your diaries:

Discover 2010: Free, family-focused exhibition celebrating research in the heart of Bristol. 11-13 March, The Mall Galleries Broadmead, and Cabot Circus (13 March). Even if you don't have a stall at Discover, come and support your colleagues and see public engagement in action. To volunteer to help contact Dane Comerford

Bioblitz: Bristol Natural History Consortium's race against the clock to find as many animal and plant species as possible in the Blaise Castle Estate. 21-22 May 2010. Contact Philippa to get involved.

Festival of Nature: Europe's largest celebration of the natural world on the Harbourside. June 12-13 2010, with a schools day on Friday June 11. Contact Philippa or Dane to get involved.

Engage 2010: Annual conference for the University's public engagement community. 23 September 2010, venue TBC. Contact Philippa with proposals/ideas for sessions.

NCCPE Conference: The National Coordinating Centre for Public Engagement are hosting their first national conference on 7-8 December 2010. More information

News & Opportunities

Fiction Writer-in-Residence in the Science Faculty. Tania Hershman, former science journalist and published author of science-inspired short stories and other fiction, will be spending two days per week in the NSQI, exploring the entanglement of science and short stories. Tania welcomes interactions at all scales, from the micro to the nano. Contact her on TaniaH@gmail.com or http://www.taniahershman.com/

Royal Society Partnership Grants - deadline 5 March 2010
Up to £3000 to support scientists working with schools.

ESRC-NCCPE Research Synthesis: Using segmentation tools for public engagement benefit - deadline 12 March 2010
Applications can be made for up to £15,000 for this research synthesis, with additional funding available for outputs and dissemination, as agreed with the NCCPE and ESRC. It is anticipated that this synthesis will be conducted during the spring and summer of 2010. More information

The UK Resource Centre for Women in Science Engineering and Technology is offering £500 technical training grants to women to help meet the cost of accessing higher level training, which could include public engagement training.

Capturing research impacts: A review of international practice
HEFCE commissioned RAND Europe to carry out a review of international approaches to evaluating the impact of research. This report presents the findings of the review, based on four case study examples.

The report and action plan from the Science for All Group has just been published. The report and supporting documents can be accessed either from the British Science Association or Department of Business Innovation and Skills websites.

Best wishes,

Philippa

Engagers digest

Welcome to another Engagers digest, this one featuring opportunities for student volunteering, arts collaborations, influencing the future of public engagement and running an event at the prestigious Dana Centre, amongst other things.

vinspired students Pilot Fund. Deadline 14 October 2009
The National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement (NCCPE) and v, the young people's volunteering charity, have launched a pilot fund to explore innovative student volunteering. Grants are available up to £10,000 and the closing date is 14 October. Visit the NCCPE's website for more information.

Festival of Nature Director. Deadline 24 October 2009
The Bristol Natural History Consortium is seeking to appoint a Director for the Festival of Nature, Bristol's celebration of the natural world. Check their website for more information.

AHRC collaborative and partnership working workshop. 5 November 2009
The AHRC will host a workshop on collaborative and partnership working with commercial partners and the cultural and heritage sectors at Paintworks in Bristol from 11 am to 5 pm on 5 November.

National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement Open House. 25 November 2009
The NCCPE is holding an Open House at its offices in the Watershed, Bristol, from 11 am to 4 pm. There will be presentations from Paul Younger (Newcastle University), Gerry Kelleher (MMU) and Kathy Sykes (University of Bristol), and case studies from the Beacons for Public Engagement. To register your interest, e-mail NCCPE Enquiries. For more news and events from the NCCPE, visit their news page.

Run an event at the Dana Centre
The Science Museum's Dana Centre in London is giving people the opportunity to run an event for ages 16+ about science, technology, medicine, design or enterprise, with a free venue and technical support.

NCCPE draft framework for public engagement
Have your say on the NCCPE's draft framework for public engagement, which aims to describe what public engagement is, how and why universities do it, and how its impact can be measured. You can read the document and comment on their website, or through an online survey.

Impact! World
EPSRC has launched Impact! World, a new website featuring films and case studies showing the ways that EPSRC-funded research is helping build the world around us.

National Science and Engineering Week/ESRC Festival of Social Science
Finally, a reminder that applications for funding of up to £2,000 to run an event for National Science and Engineering Week or the ESRC Festival of Social Science (both 12-21 March 2009) close on 2 November and 9 October respectively.