Question 1

How is PubSci funded? Do you have a sponsor?

Accepted Answer

PubSci is entirely funded by the audience. We have no other source of income. There is no sponsor, no grant-funding, and no institutional backing. This makes us completely independent. It also makes our relationship with the audience very important.

Question 2

Are PubSci events free to attend?

Accepted Answer

There is no admission charge but PubSci isn't so-much "free" as "pay-what-you-can". We trust you to make whatever contribution you think is fair for an evening of science and socialising in a central London pub. You can make your contribution when booking or bring cash on the night.

Question 3

What's the suggested donation for attending PubSci?

Accepted Answer

We're not going to tell you what you should put in the pot but if you're buying drinks at the pub, you might want to donate the cost of one-drink per person. That seems a pretty good definition of pay-what-you can!

Question 4

Is it wheelchair accessible?

Accepted Answer

Sadly, our current venue is not wheelchair accessible. The room we use is upstairs in a historic Pub and there is no level access. We have tried to find an accessible venue but nothing was available at a price that would allow us to continue PubSci's pay-what-you can policy for events.

Question 5

Can I eat and drink during the talk?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, yes! The kitchen opens especially for PubSci and serves a range of classic pub grub (make sure to check the Specials board). Order food at the bar and it will be brought up to the meeting room. Please listen out for your food arriving. There is a happy hour on drinks from 5 to 7pm.

Question 6

Is PubSci a social event?

Accepted Answer

PubSci is definitely social – it’s a friendly crowd and there’s time to chat after the Q&A if you want to – but it’s not designed as a “mixer” event. We come for the science and stay for the chat.

Question 7

Will I understand the talk? Do I need to be a scientist?

Accepted Answer

PubSci is aimed at a general audience with an interest in science-realted topics, but no specialist knowledge is required. People from all walks of life, including scientists and non-scientists can enjoy our talks. If something didn't make sense, you can always ask for clarification in the Q&A.

Question 8

Am I guaranteed a seat? What about tables for eating?

Accepted Answer

There is seating for 44 and lots of standing room. Around half these seats are at tables. The best way to secure a seat and/or table is to arrive when the doors open at 6.30. Please contact us in advance if you have mobility issues or are unable to stand for long.

Question 9

What is PubSci’s inclusion policy?

Accepted Answer

PubSci is an inclusive event, open to all and free from judgement. We aim to be a safe and respectful space regardless of gender, sexuality, race, disability, education or neurotypicality. However, the room we use is not wheelchair accessible due to access via stairs. We are looking for a solution.

Question 10

How is PubSci different from other science talks?

Accepted Answer

PubSci is a friendly event that offers accessible talks in the comfort of a pub meeting room where you can enjoy top quality science with a drink in your hand for whatever you can afford. We're independent, run by volunteers, not-for-profit, and receive no funding other than attendee contributions.

Question 11

Is PubSci a "Sip and..." event?

Accepted Answer

PubSci began long before the phrase "Sip and —" caught on. Our first tagline was "Peer Reviewed Drinking" but we later switched to "Sipping • Supping • Science" to better reflect what we do. PubSci isn't a hands-on "Sip and —" event. Check out the lovely people at LitLab for that.

Question 12

How does a typical evening run? Does it matter if I need to leave early?

Accepted Answer

Doors open at 6.30 – grab a couple of drinks and order food before the talk starts at 7. Our talks run for around 45 minutes, followed by a bar/toilet break. Some people have to head home at this point but most stay for the Q&A session which ends by 9 at the latest. You can slip out at any time.

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