Curiosity Carnival rolls into town

Throughout the day and into the evening, visitors met hundreds of Oxford University researchers and asked them questions about what research is and how it impacts people’s everyday lives.

Across Oxford, there were live experiments, games, stalls, busking, debates, music, dance and more.

Highlights included a researcher ‘bellhop’ talking about claustrophobia in a lift, research stories round a campfire, a ‘living library’ where researchers can be ordered like a library book, and a bug tasting session at the Botanic Garden.

It was a lively day on Broad Street with people visiting research stalls and trying out different activities.

The event was also popular on Twitter - #curiositycarnival was trending in Oxford all afternoon.

Professor Louise Richardson, Vice-Chancellor of the University, said: 'The Curiosity Carnival is another first for Oxford. We are delighted to have this opportunity to showcase our world-leading research, and engage with the community on projects that will shape all our futures.

'The Carnival involves all parts of the University: our many schools and departments are joined by our museums, libraries, gardens and woods.'

Oxford’s Curiosity Carnival 2017 joined hundreds of other European cities in celebrating European Researchers’ Night. The event also involves many researchers from Oxford Brookes University.

The Curiosity Carnival took place in association with the third Night of Heritage Light, with the Society of Light and Lighting illuminating many of the University’s iconic buildings in beautiful and creative ways.