The University of Manchester is recruiting Science Buskers…

by | Sep 13, 2018

Join our science busking team! If you love science and engaging with the public then we want to hear from you!

The University is taking part in the Manchester Science Festival, and as part of our family fun science fair event – Science Spectacular – we are are seeking enthusiastic postgraduates and undergraduates from all disciplines (registered at the University) who are interested in inspiring and engaging the general public in some science fun. Come along to our free training event and decide if this is right for you.

What is Science Busking?

Science Busking involves approaching people, showing them intriguing and entertaining science demonstrations or tricks – much like street magicians! As a Science Busker, you will help to enthuse and engage with hundreds of Festival visitors, bringing the fun and wonder of hands-on science tricks to the streets of Manchester. You will get to meet and work with like-minded people and enjoy a positive and memorable experience.

Whether this is your first foray or you are already experienced in the art of science communication we want to hear from you!

You need to be:

  • Outgoing, friendly and confident: You’ll be working with family audiences from children to grandparents, so you need to be comfortable talking to a range of people.
  • Intrigued by science: you don’t need a qualification, but an interest and enthusiasm for science and the ability to communicate scientific concepts clearly.
  • Willing to learn: We’ll put you through science busking training, so you are fully prepared.
  • Reliable and committed: You’ll work as part of a team to engage the public and will be asked to commit to a time slot (typically 2.5hrs) for each event you sign up to attend.

What you can expect from us:

  • Training and mentoring.
  • All the busking kit you’ll need to become a Science Busker.
  • A UoM Science Busker branded t-shirt to wear on the day.
  • Valuable experience of working on a high-profile public engagement event.
  • Refreshments and snacks to keep your energy levels up

Information and Training Day
We are running an information and training day on Wednesday 3 October 2018, 13:00 – 16:00. You can attend the training and then decide if science busking is for you. So why not sign up here – https://app.manchester.ac.uk/FSESS2000

You’ll then have the opportunity to take part in the Science Spectacular on Saturday 20 October 2018. You also be eligible to take part in other science busker calls throughout the academic year (for example Science X, Community Festival, Widening Participation school events and more!)

Key Dates:

  • Info and Training: Wednesday 3 October 2018, 13:00 – 16:00
  • Science Spectacular: Saturday 20 October 2018 (Available Slots: 10:30 – 13:00 ; or 12:30 – 15:00; or you can stay for the whole day)

How can I find out more?

For more information about becoming a science busker please contact: Dee-Ann.Johnson@manchester.ac.uk.

Please note this opportunity is only open to Postgraduates and Undergraduates at The University of Manchester.