Suds & Science

Ever thought that learning would be more fun with a cold drink in hand? We've got you covered! Suds & Science brings scientists face-to-face with the public at local neighborhood bars for a night of learning, drinking, and community that you won't want to miss!

Highlights:

• Fun and informative lectures from STEM professionals
• Lively discussions between scientists and audiences
• Connection with your community in a laid-back environment

Get your ticket today and join us at the next Suds & Science event!

Event topics:

Tuesday, March 17

Weathering Change: Life in the Face of a Changing Climate

Human activities have led to major alterations to the environment. Although we are only now coming to appreciate how, the effects of these changes have been felt by all living creatures for more than a century. In this talk, I will share three hot topics of research on how climate change affects us and the ecosystem we are embedded in. First, I will share how global warming is making us hotheaded, with potentially disastrous consequences for our society. Second, I will discuss how climate change is helping spread old diseases to new areas, and also leading to the emergence of never-before-seen pathogens. And finally, I’ll try to switch from doom to mood by telling you about how our jellyfish and cephalopod cousins might be coping with climate change. Come prepared to learn something new, “weather” you like it or not.

About the Speaker

Aalok Varma is a biologist and avid science communicator. Formally trained in neuroscience, he was awarded his PhD from the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS-TIFR), Bangalore. He is currently a postdoctoral fellow in Dr. Loren Looger’s lab at UC San Diego, where he’s trying to decode the mysteries of cephalopod biology. When not working in the lab, he spends his time reading books, playing tennis, swimming, or just being a couch potato. His blood is almost always caffeinated, yet sleep is his superpower. For more information, visit varmaalok22.github.io.

Image

 

Tuesday, April 21 

The Unsung Hero of Adulting: Your Frontal Lobes

The frontal lobes of your brain are the last to mature, and they help you to communicate effectively with others, strategize, aim high in life or use good judgment to keep your feet on the ground. Join Dr. Tiffany Chow as she explains why the frontal lobes are her favorite part of the human body. Come on time to catch the interactive demo part!

About the Speaker

Dr. Tiffany Chow is a Behavioral Neurologist trained at UCSD, with over 30 years of experience in dementia research and care. Dr. Chow is the author of The Memory Clinic and is widely respected for her work supporting patients and families across the full neurodegenerative journey—from early questions to end-of-life care. She is also known for her warmth, accessibility, and willingness to engage in real conversation, so come prepared to ask questions.

Image

Tuesday, May 19

Environmental Design: Crime Prevention and Urban Planning 

The concept of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) was first developed in the 1960s and 70s by individuals from criminology, architecture and urban activism. This idea of relating crime prevention and community safety to the built and natural environment can play a vital role in urban and community planning. CPTED has been used around the world in settings ranging from public thoroughfares to school campuses, from parks to bars and bus stops. You will walk away from this talk with an increased knowledge and appreciation for safety through smarter design and planning.

About the Speaker

Julie Wartell has spent over 30 years working around the world on issues ranging from crime prevention to breweries and neighborhoods, with the goal of applying research into practice. She has done extensive training and presentations to governmental agencies, community-based organizations, and the craft beer community. Julie has edited or authored numerous publications and teaches and conducts research at the University of California–San Diego. She has a Masters in Public Administration and a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Criminology and Police Management. In her spare time, she runs PubQuest, a craft brewery mapping service.

Image

Tuesday, September 15

How to Find and Analyze the Next Blockbuster Drug

Development of new pharmaceutical drugs is a complex process involving not only manual labor and ingenuity but also the latest advancements in technology. Companies must determine how a drug can enter the body, how it distributes, how it works in the patient,  and finally how it is eliminated from the body.  With one final component you may find a new effective drug: funding!

About the Speaker

Wayne Duncan holds a PhD in Bio-organic Chemistry with a dissertation elucidating the mechanism of action of the co-enzyme,  vitamin B6.  He spent 33 years with the Hewlett Packard/Agilent Company as Application Chemist followed by Product Manager for Chemical Analysis International.

Tuesday, October 20

Every Bite is a Water Story: The Hidden Water Networks Behind Our Food 

This talk explores the hidden networks of rivers, groundwater, infrastructure, and people that make modern food systems possible. Follow the journey of water from watershed to farm to plate and discover the surprising complexity behind the meals we eat.
 

About the Speaker

Dr. Wes Henson is an Agricultural and Biological Engineer who studies one of the biggest questions facing the planet: how to keep growing food when fresh water is running out. Raised in the deserts of Nevada, he now works with farmers, landowners, and governments across the country to understand how water and agriculture can survive an uncertain future.

Image