ASDC National Conference 2025: The next 25 years

Tuesday 9th & Wednesday 10th September

Reflect. Adapt. Thrive.

The ASDC Conference brings together delegates from the UK’s major science engagement organisations to play a strategic role in the nation’s engagement with science. Working in collaboration with people from these key organisations, the conference programme of talks, workshops, networking sessions and discussions will explore what’s on the horizon for the sector right now, over the next 5 years and longer term over 25 years.

A quarter of a century of impact, a future of infinite possibilities. ASDC25 celebrates 25 years of national impact with many of the 'millennium science centres' celebrating 25th anniversaries this year! The conference kicks off a visionary look forward with many of the most influential people in science and cultural engagement, hosted by the team at Bradford's National Science and Media Museum.

In a world that’s changing fast, standing still isn’t an option. Join powerful conversations that ask the big questions: What must we change? What should we protect? What do future audiences need from us?

Your network, your moment! Come and meet peers, pioneers and change-makers from around the UK. Whether you're a CEO, curator, or creative producer, ASDC25 brings together a national network ready to share ideas and scale impact.

Live from the Science and Media Museum, Bradford - a city of stories and innovation. Experience the UK’s only museum dedicated to exploring the intersection of science, media, and culture. Expect immersive installations, northern hospitality, and a venue that lives and breathes future-facing thinking. Give yourselves time to stay and explore the city and the amazing programme of events as part of the City of Culture 2025.

Don’t just attend, come and influence. Your voice matters and your presence helps shape how we can thrive for the next 25 years. Expect interactive sessions, pop-up provocations, creative labs and celebrations with an evening of socials where everyone can connect, unwind and raise a glass to the next chapter!

Opening the conference with an exciting keynote speech will be Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director, Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture who will be sharing her vision to break down the perceived siloes between the sciences and the arts.

Jo Quinton-Tulloch, Director of National Science and Media Museum says:
“We’re thrilled to be hosting this year’s ASDC conference and cannot wait to welcome delegates to the National Science and Media Museum. With Bradford as the UK City of Culture there has never been a better time to visit. I look forward to celebrating the amazing work of our sector and showcasing what Bradford has to offer!”