Engineers engage young people with interactive activities at the Oxford Brookes Science Bazaar

On February 3rd, some of our Postdoctoral Researchers and DPhil students from the Beyond Antiobiotics and the Optics and Photonics research groups took part in the Oxford Brookes Science Bazaar, taking interactive demonstrations and fun activities to spark curiosity and foster a deeper appreciation for science in participants of all ages.

The Oxford Optics and Photonics Society showcased a vibrant stall, captivating young minds with exciting optics demonstrations. Aimed at children aged 5-16, their goal was to instill a passion for science while teaching basic optics principles. Among the fascinating demos, participants explored "Bottle Magic", where a simple plastic bottle revealed the wonders of refraction and lensing as arrows mysteriously changed direction. Another highlight was the "Appearing Coin", unveiling the magic of refraction as a coin seemingly appeared when submerged in water. The stall also featured hands-on projects like a DIY pinhole camera, offering an immersive experience into the fundamentals of optics. Their demonstration on polarised light showcased the intriguing interactions between light waves using two polarisers. 

Maike Lenz, a DPhil student in the Dynamic Optics and Photonics Group comments, "We felt like the day was a real success (the turnout was remarkable!) and everything on our side went very smoothly".

The Beyond Antiobiotics stand was focused on how ultrasound can be utilised to combat bacterial infections and antimicrobial resistance through demonstrations and interactive play, including:

• Bacteria and Antibiotics Activities: Delving into Microscopic Worlds - Shining a light on the underlying reasons for the research undertaken by the Beyond Antibiotics grant was an array of activities focused on bacteria, antibiotics, and drug resistance. Through coloring sheets, crosswords, and interactive demonstrations, participants gained insight into the complex relationship between bacteria and antibiotics.

• "Pin the tail on the Donkey": A Creative Twist on Anatomy and Interactive App: Peering Inside the Human Body - In a playful twist on the classic game, "Pin the tail on the Donkey," participants were challenged to identify various body parts depicted using different imaging techniques. From X-rays to MRIs, children and adults alike tested their knowledge of anatomy while learning about the importance of medical imaging (specifically ultrasound) in diagnosing and treating ailments.

• Acoustic Fountain: Unveiling the Power of Ultrasound - As a demonstration of the therapeutic potential of ultrasound, the team created an “acoustic fountain”, where an ultrasound transducer was used to send focused sound waves at an air-liquid interface. This results in mild to violent disruption of the water surface and even cold steam generation. Participants were encouraged to connect the dots between the mechanical effects of ultrasound and the challenge of antibiotic penetration through biofilms.

The Beyond Antibiotics team said of the event, "engaging with attendees reaffirmed the importance of effective science communication. Sharing research in a relatable and accessible manner not only deepened their technical understanding but also highlighted the relevance of scientific advancements to the broader community. Looking forward to more outreach events in the future!"