New Scientist Live is back at ExCeL London from Saturday 12 until Sunday 13 October, with a special Schools’ Day on Monday 14 October. The event promises a lineup of over 60 speakers, five stages, and a variety of exhibitors and experiences. Whether you’re interested in artificial intelligence, weird animals, cutting-edge astrophysics, or brain-boosting foods, there’s something for everyone. Here are what eight members of the New Scientist editorial staff are most excited about:
Leah Crane, Senior reporter, is looking forward to hosting a live episode of the Dead Planets Society podcast with Chelsea Whyte. The podcast features wild hypotheticals about tinkering with the cosmos and subjecting them to scientific scrutiny, with the help of special guests who are actual scientists. Leah is also excited to explore talks on dinosaur behavior and the evolution of free will.
Rowan Hooper, Podcast editor, is eager to hear Chris Thorogood discuss the Rafflesia plant, known for producing the largest flower in the world with a scent of rotting meat. He is also interested in Rachel Casey’s talk on the important role of dogs in our lives and David Robson’s insights on social connection.
Tim Boddy, Picture editor, is keen on Rachel Casey’s talk on dogs, David Robson’s discussion on social connection, and a panel debate on the greatest science fiction novel of all time. He is also intrigued by the Incredible Oceans experience, offering a close encounter with ocean giants.
Carissa Wong, Health reporter, is excited to learn about brain-boosting foods from Kimberley Wilson and insights on aging and death from Venki Ramakrishnan. She is torn between talks on uncertainty, human origins, and mental health, and is looking forward to hosting the Mind and Body Stage.
Obomate Briggs, Trainee video producer, is looking forward to talks on anomalistic psychology and forensic science portrayal. He is particularly interested in how science explains supernatural events and media’s depiction of forensic science.
Alexandra Thompson, Assistant news editor, is excited to host the Mind and Body stage on Schools’ Day and attend talks by Venki Ramakrishnan on aging, Kevin Mitchell on free will, and Vincent Deary on rest and relaxation. She also plans to enjoy the rollercoaster simulator and listen to various engaging speakers.
Eleanor Parsons, Chief subeditor, is eager to attend talks on dinosaur behavior by David Hone and life in the Middle Ages by Alice Roberts. She is fascinated by prehistoric creatures and historical periods.
Matthew Sparkes, Technology reporter, is looking forward to Neil Lawrence’s talk on human and machine intelligence, exploring the safe use of AI in everyday life. He hopes to gain a better understanding of the current AI landscape and the potential benefits and risks associated with it.
These diverse interests and topics promise an engaging and enlightening experience at New Scientist Live, with something for everyone to enjoy.
