World-renowned particle physicist and TV astronomer Brian Cox will be the star of an event next November that is intended to inspire the North’s next generation of scientists and engineers.
He will come to Rotherham next year for a northern version of his London-based Science Summer School, which was founded nine years ago through a partnership with social entrepreneur Andrew Mawson.
The eminent scientist, writer and broadcaster is passionate about paving the way for future generations of scientists and engineers, and it was always his (and Lord Mawson’s) intention to launch a northern satellite event.
It will take place in November 2020, led by Well Rotherham and supported by the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) (
www.amrc.co.uk), Rotherham and Sheffield councils and the Harworth Group.
Jack Forrest, who is from the AMRC STEM and Outreach Team and is helping to plan the science extravaganza, says it is a fantastic opportunity for the AMRC — at the heart of advanced manufacturing in the region — to inspire the next generation of researchers and innovators.
“We are really pleased that Rotherham has been chosen as the location for this satellite event, bringing it to the heartland of advanced manufacturing.
“This event will allow us to highlight the opportunities that are on the doorstep of young people in Rotherham with the AMRC Training Centre; it will show we are a region committed to nurturing the talent vital to ensuring that the engineering and manufacturing sectors can thrive.”
The announcement follows a trip in the summer (organised by Well Rotherham) that saw 23 pupils from local schools journey down to London to take part in Professor Cox’s science summer school, where they joined hundreds of other young people from across the country.
Kris MacKay, programme manager for Well Rotherham, said: “It was such a fantastic experience to be able to go to London.
“Watching these young people who are so passionate about the world of science start their journey as ambassadors was an incredible opportunity. Over the next year, they will be working together to help us co-produce the satellite event.”