Museum Info

Pub Science provides a unique opportunity for adults to explore the newest thinking and scientific research in a casual atmosphere.  No prior knowledge of the subjects is required, and there are no silly questions. Just bring yourself, your friends and your curiosity!  It is currently held at Blind Bob’s, located in Dayton’s Oregon District. Admission to Pub Science is free; donations accepted at the door. 

FAQs

What is Pub Science?
Pub Science is presented by the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery to engage lifelong learners in our community. Each month, the Museum will bring engaging speakers to an informal environment in the Dayton area. This is an opportunity to learn about science in a relaxed, fun environment. Pub Science is not a lecture, but instead a conversation with experts hoping to share their research and passion for their work.

What happens at Pub Science?
Pub Science sessions will feature a brief introduction to a topic by an expert in the field, followed by discussion of the topic with those in attendance. Because there is no formal structure, each session will be shaped by the speaker and the audience.

Do I need to have science background to get something from the conversation?
No. Pub Science is designed to be accessible to the average adult with an interest in exploring topics in science and technology.

Who are the speakers at Pub Science?
Speakers will vary by topic, but will be individuals knowledgeable in the theme selected for the month.

What subjects will be discussed at Pub Science?
Topics will be selected by the program coordinator, taking input from you, the participants into account.

When and where is Pub Science held?
Pub Science will be held on the second Tuesday of each month. The location will vary, with a new venue selected each month. Check the schedule below for updates.

Is there a cover charge for Pub Science?
There is no cover charge for the evenings; however, donations will be accepted at the door. In addition, participants can order food and/or drinks from the establishment where the event is held. Don't forget to tip your server!

Schedule

Pub Science is held the second Tuesday of each month at various locations. Unless otherwise noted, all programs begin at 7:00 p.m. Check back regularly for updates on locations and topics. 

August 9
Topic: Pub Science Restrospective
Speaker: -
Location: Blind Bob's
Description:
There will be no lecturer during this month’s Pub Science, just unadulterated, hands-on science experiments at the bar. Visitors will interact with examples of nanotechnology, Tesla coils, and sensory experiments that will help us try and remember what we’ve learned from the amazing speakers of the past 18 months. The first 50 or so visitors will get the chance to build and take home a scuttling robot sure to amaze friends and future Pub Scientists. For hard core Pub Science veterans, a comprehensive quiz for prizes will be held. Join us! 

July 12
Topic: Dusty Plasmas
Speaker: Dr. Jeremiah McCall 
Location: Blind Bob's
Description:
Dr. Jeremiah Williams spends his time at Wittenberg University teaching physics and studying dust. This dust is no ordinary grime, but the particles found in plasma.  Don’t get out your nano-sized feather duster just yet, though!  Whether they are created in the rings of Saturn, in the tails of comets and interstellar clouds, or are simply an unintended byproduct in the manufacture of microchips, this unique plasma dust has the potential to help scientists manufacture solar panels and other thin films. 

June 14
Topic: Calories In, Calories Out
Speaker: Dr. David Goldstein 
Location: Blind Bob's
Description:
“Lose 18 pounds in 4 days!” proclaims one weight loss plan (with “no dieting, no meal replacements”). Really?? Is that possible? Come sit back, enjoy some fried macaroni and cheese and a beer, and satisfy your appetite for science while we discuss the lean facts about calorie balance. Dr. David Goldstein, professor and chair of the biology department at Wright State University will serve up the skinny on energy expenditure and dieting at this month's Pub Science. Join us! You’ll be several pounds smarter by the time you leave!

May 10
Topic: Snakes in a Pub
Speaker: Dr. Sarath Krishna 
Location: Blind Bob's
Description:
Scientists in the medical field are charmed by the potential uses of toxic snake venom-from slowing the spread of cancer to curing chronic pain.  Dr. Sarath Krishna will present his research into the “concoction of unique bio molecules” present in the glands of rattlesnakes and other venom producers while handling live snakes used in his studies.  Sssssssssee you there!

April 12
Topic: Electricity
Speaker: Dr. Sharmila M. Mukhopadhyay
Location: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Description:
Adults Only: Science Night at the Boonshoft Museum.  Mingle with science minded folks while learning about the interesting, showy, and sometimes bizarre history of electricity.  Doors open at 6:30.  Food and drinks will be served in our Tait Auditorium, where our six foot in diameter spherical display, Science on a Sphere will show images of Earth, space, and science.   At 7:00, Dr. Sharmila M. Mukhopadhyay will lead a discussion about conductors of the future in our new temporary exhibit: It's Electric: Past-Current-Future.  Guests are encouraged to interact with exhibits and tour the museum.  Admission is free and pizza, beer and wine are provided.  Only bring guests 21 and up, please!

Important: Please park and enter at the back of the museum, at 2629 Ridge Avenue in Dayton.

March 8
Topic: Mind Over Mouse
Speaker: Wright State University
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Researchers at Wright State University are developing 'hands-free' interactions with the computer using eye movement, muscle tension, and brainwaves. This is targeted as an assistive technology for people who have motor disabilities that make it difficult for them to use a keyboard or mouse.  However, this system has also gotten the attention of computer gamers, who believe that this system can give them an 'edge' in competition. Come hear the team speak about their work and see a hands-on demo of the technology!

Previous Topics

December 14
Topic: Short Pulse Lasers
Speaker: Jason Diebel
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
What is the fastest event that you can think of? Is it milliseconds? Microseconds? Nanoseconds? It turns out that there is a whole realm of physics that takes place on a time scale that makes a nanosecond seem slow. Come learn about what happens in a femtosecond (0.000000000000001 seconds).  Dr. Jason Deibel, an assistant professor and researcher at Wright State University will talk about how we can use lasers to learn about this timescale and how ultrafast physics affects your everyday experience.

November 9
Topic: Physiology of Taste
Speaker: George M. Sideras
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Are you hungry for knowledge? Join us for The Physiology of Taste with Nestle Professional George M. Sideras while we explore this savory science topic. Sample a range of flavors and map the taste buds on your tongue with interactive tasting experiments, and engage in a discussion about the way our brains and bodies work together to perceive taste sensations.

October 12
Topic: Art Fakes and Forgeries
Speaker: Suzanne Seleem
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Ancient as well as modern forgeries have always been a challenge to identify, detect and even acknowledge. Experts in many fields have teamed up with scientists to remove such “objects of art” from various museum and private collections. Dr. Suzanne Seleem of Central State University will discuss the methods that have been used to detect some of these famous forgeries.

September 14
Topic: The Art and Science of Beer Brewing
Speaker: Mike Schwartz
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Two great things that go great together: Pub Science and beer!  Join us as we dive deep into our glasses to discuss the science of brewing and fermentation.  Mike Schwartz, local brewer and owner of brew supply store Brewtensils, will be leading a discussion about the chemistry that makes it all possible, and the techniques that distinguish one brew from another. Join us!

August 10
Topic: Prehistoric Pottery
Speaker: Jill Krieg
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Three thousand years ago, the first woodland cultures settled in the Ohio River Valley. They were horticulturalists, traders, and craftsmen. Join us as we delve into the world of our predecessors through the ceramics they created. Jill Krieg, archaeologist and educator at the Dayton Society of Natural History, will present examples of prehistoric pottery and discuss the people who made them. More than tools, these ceramics are social indicators, giving glimpses into both the agency and identity of a population. Don't miss it!

July 13
Topic: Ethnopharmacology
Speaker: Marcia Wendeln
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Before pharmaceuticals were patented and prescribed, people relied on cultural knowledge of plants and animals to cure ailments and relieve pain.  Ethnopharmacology is the study of how indigenous people use natural resources as medicine. By unearthing ancient and complex ways of treating disease, scientists learn more about both plants and the people who've used them.  Dr. Marcia Wendeln is a professor and field biologist at Wright State University who studies ecology and conservation in the tropics.

June 8
Topic: Changing Ohio Forests
Speaker: Dr. James Runkle
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Attention hikers, gardeners, and nature enthusiasts!  This month Pub Science goes into the wild with Dr. James Runkle of the Biology Department at Wright State University.  Dr. Runkle will share his research about some of the changes in the ecology of Ohio forests.  Enjoy an introductory presentation about those pesky invasive species and the growth in population of certain wild animals like deer, beavers, turkeys, and eagles in our area.  Get a closer look at some real life artifacts and examples, and engage in conversation with one of the top experts on local forest ecology.  Don't miss it!
 

May 11
Topic: Nanoparticles
Speaker: Dr. Ioana Pavel, PhD
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Nanoparticles: the next plastic or the next asbestos? Engineered nanoparticles are quickly becoming commonplace. From materials and cosmetics to fuel additives to biosensors, these submicroscopic particles are around us all the time. Dr. Ioana Pavel researches how silver nano particles can be used in the medical field to probe cells, tissues, and organs. She also studies the environmental and health impacts of nanomaterials. Join us for this fascinating and timely topic!

April 13
Topic: Exoplanets
Speaker: Cheri Adams
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
There are literally billions of stars in our galaxy, many of which have planets orbiting them. So far, over 400 of these planets, called exoplanets or extra solar planets have been discovered. Using kinesthetic modeling, we will try and conceptualize the scope and scale of our solar system and galaxy, and demonstrate the methods that scientists use to uncover planets deep in space. The Boonshoft Museum's own Director of Astronomy, Cheri Adams, will present the latest news in this fascinating field.

March 9
Topic: Synesthetics
Speaker: Dr. Susan B. Davis
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Do you hear colors? Have you ever tasted a feeling? Do numbers have personalities or genders? You may be a synesthete (sin-a-steet). Synesthetes experience a blending of the senses, giving them a unique perspective and sometimes a creative edge. Dr. Susan B. Davis from the University of Dayton will discuss her research into this phenomenon and present some visual examples. Smell you there!

February 9
Topic: Nanotechnology
Speaker: Terry Murray
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Imagine instant computing, cancer treatment that targets tumors, even an elevator to space. While these futuristic technologies may seem unrelated, the key to all of them is nanotechnology. Explore the science of small with our guest P.T. Murray, a nanotechnology expert and researcher at the University of Dayton. Learn how matter behaves in unexpected ways when it is on the scale of a billionth of a meter. We will uncover why nano is a big deal in new technologies ranging from semi-conductors to sunblock. Join us!

January 12
Topic: Forensic Science
Speaker: Dan Krane
Location: Blind Bob’s
Description:
Are you a fan or Law and Order? Any of the CSI shows? Then you’ve heard – indirectly, at least – from Dan Krane, Professor of Biology at Wright State University. As a forensics expert, Dan has provided his expertise to writers of these shows when it comes to treatment of DNA evidence. He has been featured on, or served as a technical consultant to: CBS Nightly News, NBC's Unsolved Mysteries, CBS's Sixty Minutes, Court TV, CBS's Eye to Eye with Connie Chung, as well as The Gannette News Service, Weekly Reader Magazine, The Washington Post, and The Los Angeles Times, among others. Dan has years of experience reviewing DNA results from hundreds of court cases around the world, including several high profile prosecutions as well as exoneration cases. Learn how his company’s use of automated analysis is helping create an objective review of evidence and making results easy to understand.