Join our science busking team! If you love science and engaging with the public then we want to hear from you!

The University is taking part in the Manchester Science Festival, and as part of our family fun science fair event – Science Spectacular – we are are seeking enthusiastic postgraduates and undergraduates from all disciplines (registered at the University) who are interested in inspiring and engaging the general public in some science fun. Come along to our free training event and decide if this is right for you.

What is Science Busking?

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 will 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, so you are fully prepared.
  • Reliable and committed: If you are selected we will ask you to commit to 2.5 hours of science busking, on Saturday 21 October 2017, Manchester Museum.

What you can expect from us:

  • Training and mentoring.
  • All the busking kit you’ll need to become a Science Busker.
  • A UoM Science Busker branded t-shirt to wear on the day.
  • Valuable experience of working on a high-profile public engagement event.
  • Refreshments and snacks to keep your energy levels up

Information and Training Day
We are running an information and training day on Wednesday 11 October 2017, 13:30 – 16:30 in the Michael Smith Building.

You can attend the training and then decide if science busking is for you. So why not sign up here – https://app.manchester.ac.uk/FEPSS8852

If you do decide that science busking is for you, you will be invited to attend one hour mentored practice at Manchester Museum on Wednesday 18 October.

You’ll then have the opportunity to take part in the Science Spectacular on Saturday 21 October 2017. You also be eligible to take part in other calls science busker throughout the academic year.

Key Dates:

  • Info and Training: Wed 11 October 2017, 13:30 – 16:30
  • Mentored Practice: Wed 18 October 2017 (Available slots: 10.30-11.30; or 11.30 – 12.30; or 15:00-16:00)
  • Science Spectacular: Sat 21 October 2017 (Available Slots: 10:30 – 13:00 ; or 12:30 – 15:00; or you can stay for the whole day)

How can I find out more?
For more information about becoming a science busker please contact: Dee-Ann.Johnson@manchester.ac.uk or 0161 306 4155.

Please note this opportunity is only open to Postgraduates and Undergraduates at The University of Manchester.