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Interested in science, but hate the stuffy atmosphere of a college lecture hall? Want to learn more about the latest technology breakthroughs in normal English, minus the jargon? Then Café Scientifique Pittsburgh at Carnegie Science Center is the place to be!
Café Sci is THE place in Pittsburgh where anyone interested in science can get together in a really cool setting to discuss today's science issues with experts, and best of all...it's not a lecture! After a brief introduction by our monthly guest speaker, the evening is dedicated to informal discussion, eating, and drinking. Each month a different dinner and beer menu will be offered.
Recently located to Carnegie Science Center's Works Theater with eight giant screens, a top-notch sound system, and a one million-volt Tesla Coil, Café Sci is the home of science for grown-ups in Pittsburgh.
Join us for Café Scientifique on
Monday, Sept. 13.
RSVP Now!
Richard Chaillet, MD, PhD
Associate Professor
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics
University of Pittsburgh
Synthetic Biology:
DNA to Organisms
In May 2010, researchers at the J. Craig Venter Institute in Maryland, a not-for-profit genomic research organization, announced that they had successfully constructed the first self-replicating, synthetic bacterial cell. That announcement renewed worldwide excitement about the potential benefits of synthetic biology in healthcare and the environment, as well as concerns over dangerous misuses of these discoveries.
But what is synthetic biology? Its an emerging field of experimental science whose goals are to alter existing organisms through genetic engineering. Scientists are now able to mimic devices found in the engineering world, modify organisms to test ideas, and even bypass normal developmental requirements in higher organisms.
These experimental approaches are truly powerful, yet mysterious. Join us for this intriguing Caf Scientifique event as Dr. Chaillet describes three examples of the power of synthetic biology: a molecular switch that is activated by a drug; resurrection of a dead, but deadly organism; and generation of bi-maternal mice.
Dont miss this chance to examine closely the potential and challenges of yet another example of groundbreaking research being done in our region and beyond!
Date: Monday, June 7, 2010
Time:
Doors open at 6 pm, and the program is 79. Science Center doors close at 7:45.
Location: Carnegie Science Centers Works Theater (fourth floor)
Admission: FREE!
Parking: $5
Cash bar: Open until 8:30 pm
NOTE: RSVP by Thursday, Sept. 9, even if you are not ordering food. If you already reserved your spot, you do not need to do so again.
Menu: Pub-Style Delights @ $8 Each (includes tax and gratuity)
Assorted sandwiches, wraps, and salads
All sandwiches are served with a small bag of chips or one piece of hand-held fruit. All salads are served with a roll and butter.
Vegetarian options are available.
Additional hand-held fruit or bag of chips is available @ $1 each.
House-made chili is available @ $3 per bowl.
Small cookies also are available @ two for $1.
Dont miss the rest of our fall Café Scientifique events:
October 4 Learn about a recent discovery that has been dubbed the missing link, a fossil found in South Africa. Delve into paleontology and this story, which has been featured on Sixty Minutes and has received widespread media attention, and meet an expert who will provide commentary and provide counterpoints to this controversial discovery.
November 1 This months Caf Scientifique speaker will be Don Marinelli from Carnegie Mellon Universitys Entertainment Technology Center. He will talk about his work and relationship with the late Randy Pausch as described in Marinellis new book, The Comet and the Tornado.
December 6 Meet Arthur Ainsberg, co-author of the new book Breakthrough: Elizabeth Hughes, the Discovery of Insulin, and the Making of a Medical Miracle. This Caf Sci will talk about this enthralling story that was researched meticulously and is intended to appeal to readers of all ages and interests.
Please contact Linda Ortenzo with any questions at 412.237.1821 or OrtenzoL@CarnegieScienceCenter.org.
Want to receive monthly updates about each month's presentation, topic, speaker, and buffet menu? You only need to register once! Join Here
Do you have a cool science job or hobby? Then Café Sci may be looking for you! If you are interested in presenting at Café Sci, email us.
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