For Immediate Release
9 November 2004

National Science Week 2005 (11-20 March) is on its way - it's time to start planning. But do you think science isn't of interest to your audience? Then think again...

Did you know ...Scientists in London are using decomposing pigs to help solve crimes? ...Eating chocolate while pregnant results in happier babies? ...Curry spice could alleviate cystic fibrosis? ...Britain leads the way in research into the link between sexual activity and facial
hair?

In 2004, 47% of GB adults surveyed were aware of National Science Week*. Over 300,000 people of all ages took part in National Science Week, with more than 1,500 events.

"Every year, National Science Week plays an important part in connecting science with people of all ages," says Roland Jackson, Chief Executive of the BA, which co-ordinates the week. "Over the past few years, media as varied as Blue Peter, the Today Programme, the Sun and GMTV have featured National Science Week, showing that science can be accessible to everyone."

To tie in with National Science Week and Einstein Year, the BA is launching universe, a competition based around the work of the celebrated physicist. Budding poets are invited to submit poems on the themes of time, space and energy to this UK-wide competition. Poems can be submitted online from January and the competition will run until 11 February.

*NOP World Group surveyed 1,000 adults aged 15+ between 5-7 March 2004, using a nationally representative telephone omnibus survey. Data was weighted to bring it in line with national profiles.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Craig Brierley, Press Officer, the BA
Tel: 020 7019 4947
Email: craig.brierley@the-ba.net

Notes for editors

1. The BA (British Association for the Advancement of Science) is the UK's nationwide, open membership organisation dedicated to connecting science with people, so that science and its applications become accessible to all. The BA aims to promote openness about science in society and to engage and inspire people directly with science and technology and their implications. Established in 1831, the BA organises major initiatives across the UK, including the annual BA Festival of Science, National Science Week, programmes of regional and local events, and an extensive programme for young people in schools and colleges. For more information about the BA, please visit www.the-ba.net.

2. About National Science Week

• National Science Week is coordinated by the BA (British Association for the Advancement of Science).
• National Science Week is endorsed and supported by the Government through the Department of Trade and Industry and the Office of Science and Technology. 
• During the week, events are organised throughout the UK by a large and varied range of organisations and individuals including hospitals, schools, industry and museums. Venues range from shopping centres to pubs and churches.
• National Science Week is aimed at everyone from children and adults to decision-makers and investors and is intended to:
  • engage and inspire people of all ages
    with science and technology and their implications
  • promote discussion and understanding of what science, engineering and technology can and cannot achieve
  • promote knowledge of the scientific
    method, i.e. how scientists go about their work and reach their conclusions
  • promote science, engineering and
    technology studies beyond the age of 16 and science, engineering and technology as career options.
• An essential feature of National Science Week is the way it takes science to the public rather than waiting for the public to find science. The week has drawn many scientists into the public domain to discuss their work with interested audiences.

2004 Vital Statistics:

• over 1,500 events from hands-on
  activities to discussions, tours to online activities
• over 300,000 participants at events

A searchable database of events during National Science Week is available at www.the-ba.net/nsw.