The Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS) is once again conjuring up the spooky side of science and history with the return of its much-loved festival, Samhain agus Science. Now in its eighth year, the festival blends cutting-edge research with Celtic traditions to explore where science, culture and the supernatural collide. Following a number of spectacular events last week, the festival wraps with three fascinating events today and tomorrow.
1. The Demon’s in the Detail sees Theoretical Physicist and Senior Lecturer in Physics at Bristol University, Felix Flicker, present a talk on the surprising rich history of demons in physics and the various 19th century thought experiments that invoked demons as imagined agents capable of superhuman powers. He will then present ongoing work in which we seek to detail a lesser-known modern example of demons in physics: Pines’ demon, a new type of particle observed in 2023. 7pm, Monday Nov 3rd, Dublin Institute of Advanced Studies. Doors 6.30pm.
2. Magma in Motion, an engaging science event presented by researchers from the Geophysics Section of the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies and the Dublin Magmatism Group that explores the dynamic forces beneath Earth’s surface. 6pm Tuesday Nov 4th, M4 Lecture theatre, Museum Building TCD. Doors 6.30pm.
3. Medieval Murder Mysteries: Homicide in Early Irish Law a mesmerising talk by Dr Viktoriia Krivoshchekova, post-doctoral scholar in the School of Celtic Studies at DIAS, on how medieval Irish law dealt with murder, especially when the identity of the killer was not obvious. It will explore how such cases were treated by the law and what methods could be used to investigate them to answer the age-old question: “whodunnit?” 7pm – 8pm Tuesday Nov 4th, Dublin Institute of Advanced Studies. Doors 6.30pm.
All events are free and are designed for a general audience, welcoming everyone from curious newcomers to seasoned science enthusiasts to learn more about the world around us.
To register your attendance and book your place visit Eventbrite
