March 22, 2022
What: Lunch Break Science is back in the historic Science Museum of Virginia building next month. After taking a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, science lovers can again—literally—get a front row seat during the noon-time presentations about cutting-edge scientific topics.
Lunch Break Science is the long-running program series featuring an engaging presentation about science, technology, engineering or math. A different expert gives each free approximately one-hour talk.
Since 2020, the Science Museum has been offering the programs virtually, which has allowed guests to view presentations from speakers across the globe. Topics have included travel to Mars, flying snakes, wearable iron art, ancient hell herons, Viking DNA containing smallpox, the neuroscience behind the pumpkin spice craze, sea dragons, music therapy, robots, the physics of baseball, zombie wasps and more.
When: The first in-person Lunch Break Science takes place Wednesday, April 6, at noon. Lunch Break Science events happen the first and third Wednesday of each month.
Who: The April 6 presentation is about the history and science behind how experts study Earth’s temperature, and why temperature is a crucial indicator of global climate change. Given by Science Museum David and Jane Cohn Scientist Dr. Jeremy Hoffman, guests will learn how rising temperatures will impact Virginia and its residents.
The Science Museum will host several Lunch Break Science events this year themed around touring exhibitions “Skin: Living Armor, Evolving Identity” opening April 30 and “Planet Shark: Predator or Prey” opening May 28. Programs and speakers are listed on the Science Museum’s website when details are finalized.
Science lovers of all ages are invited to attend the cost-free programs. The presentations are geared for an adult audience. The 12 p.m. series start time allows community members working in nearby businesses, or working from home out of the numerous apartments that have opened in nearby Scott’s Addition in recent years, to walk over on their lunch break to attend.
Why: The Science Museum offers Lunch Break Science to show Virginians their connections to science, and to inspire them to explore how science enriches their lives. Bringing the series back in person allows the Science Museum to highlight innovative work happening in a variety of fields and gives guests direct access to the talented professionals doing it.
How: Guests interested in attending the April 6 Lunch Break Science, or any thereafter, should check in with Guest Services when they arrive at the Science Museum.
Lunch Break Science events take place in the Science Museum’s Barbara Thalhimer Theater. Seating is first come, first served. The theater seats 125 guests.
Guests are welcome to bring food and drink to enjoy during the presentation. The Science Museum has vending machines available in The Rotunda.
Where: Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220