The University of Manchester is recruiting Science Buskers to support events taking place during this year’s Manchester Science Festival (MSF).

We are seeking enthusiastic postdoctoral associates, postgraduates and undergraduates from across the University who are interested in inspiring and engaging the general public in science, technology, engineering and maths. This is an excellent opportunity to be a part of the Festival.

What will you do?

Science Busking involves approaching people, showing them intriguing and entertaining science demonstrations or tricks – much like street magicians! As a Science Busker, you will help to enthuse and engage with hundreds of Festival visitors, bringing the fun and wonder of hands-on science tricks to the streets of Manchester.

You’ll be selected as part of small cohort of Science Buskers, so you get to meet and work with like-minded people and enjoy a positive and memorable experience.

Whether this is your first foray or you are already experienced in the art of science communication we want to hear from you!

You need to be:

  • Outgoing, friendly and confident: you’ll be working with family audiences from children to grandparents, so you need to be comfortable talking to a range of people. Intrigued by science: you don’t need a qualification, but an interest and enthusiasm for science and the ability to communicate scientific concepts clearly
  • Willing to learn: we’ll put you through science busking training and a mentored practice session at the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI)
  • Reliable and committed: we are asking you to commit to 4 hours of science busking, from 10:00 – 14:00 on Saturday 27 October, here in Manchester.

What you can expect from us:

  • Half day of presentation, communication skills, and science busking training.
  • A free MSF t-shirt and all the busking kit you’ll need to become a ‘Street Scientist’.
  • Valuable experience of working on a high-profile public engagement project.
  • An Amazon Voucher (to the value of £35) once you complete your shift.

Key Dates:

  • Wed 10 October: Applications of interest close
  • Mon 15 October: Training and briefing (10:00 – 14:45)
  • Thu 18 October: Selection of science buskers
  • Tue 23 October: Mentored practice at MOSI (13:30 – 15:30)
  • Sat 27 October: Science Busking on Oxford Road, Manchester (10:00 – 14:00)

Places are limited and this is a selective process. You will be able to attend the training, even if you do not go on to be selected this time round.

How can I apply?

  • Review the Application Guidance (pdf)
  • Complete the Applications of Interest Form (doc) (hint when you download this file, click save, rather than open)
  • By applying, you are indicating your availability and commitment to attend the training and practice session before the Science Busking event itself.

How can I find out more?
For more information about becoming a science busker please email:
Dee-Ann.Johnson@manchester.ac.uk or  Kate.Dack@manchester.ac.uk

This event is part of Manchester Science Festival; Come out and play, create and experiment at this nine day Festival.