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Talking Science Grants

12th January 2013

Science projects that aim to interest people of all ages and abilities can bid for funding to reach an even greater audience from today.

Talking Science grants aim to make science and scientific issues more accessible to communities across Scotland that may not have otherwise have had the chance. More than £200,000 is available in 2013-14.

Funding was awarded to the like of Archaeology Scotland, the John Muir Trust and Bute Astronomical Club in 2012-13 and it is hoped this year’s applicants will be able to emulate their success.

Minister for Science Dr Alasdair Allan said:“Talking Science grants are really about creating events that truly bring science to life for everyone.

“In the first round of awards the range of events supported included taking hands-on science exhibits to music festivals, opening up access to archaeological excavations and finding ways of making science exciting to very young children and teenagers to build what will hopefully be a lifelong interest.”

The Chief Scientific Adviser for Scotland, Professor Muffy Calder added:”Scotland is a science nation, with technology and engineering remaining hugely important to our country in the modern era. These grants represent an opportunity to involve people of all ages with science and its impact on our everyday lives. I would urge anybody with an idea for making science accessible to families, young people or the wider public to consider applying.”

University of Edinburgh and Eurostemcell were awarded £40,000 last year to take stem cell-related activities to patient groups and young people in rural areas, including at music festivals. This is an area of science that's very current, with complex ethical issues involved, and for which Scotland has a world-leading reputation.

Project leader Dr Cathy Southworth said:

“Engaging people with stem cell science is a primary goal of our researchers and of Eurostemcell. We were looking for a way of working with communities that made our events more relevant, personable and accessible to those involved. With this grant we can do just that – work collaboratively to provide accurate and accessible information and hear thoughts and ideas from Scotland's communities about this cutting edge science."

The deadline for applications is March 5, 2013.

More information on applications at -
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/science/Scienceengagement/engagement-grants/grantguidance

2012-13 project awards -
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/science/Scienceengagement/engagement-grants/winners/2012-13