Groundbreaking science will be bought to the people of Dublin in a special programme of Science in the City events, as part of the British Association Festival of Science. Virtual graffiti, geological walks, and a passion survey are among the events, all designed to prove to everyone that science is exciting, relevant and entertaining.
"The idea behind the Science in the City programme is to attract a diversity of people with presentations of science issues in a wide variety of forms and settings," says the programme coordinator and senior lecturer at Dublin City University, Brian Trench.
He says issues that effect ordinary people will be explored: "the smoking ban, Ireland's drinking culture, and climate change - as well as incorporating some more light-hearted elements, like hypnosis, science cabaret, and a family science day," he explains.
Each night, the X-Change will provide the opportunity to hear broadcaster Quentin Cooper review the day's events. Taking place in the GMB debating chamber at Trinity, participants can just sit back and listen or get involved by discussing pressing issues in science.
Other events include a competition called "Particle plays", in which teams attempt to explain complex theories in physics to a non-specialist audience in just three minutes, an open-air screening of the futuristic film Gattaca in Temple Bar Square, and an opportunity to discuss who sets the agenda for science with Prof Robert Winston and Ireland's chief science advisor Dr Barry McSweeney.
As well as the talks and workshops, there will be walk-in photographic exhibitions that can be visited at any time during the week. Entitled Visions of Science (Filmbase Basement, Curved Street, Temple Bar), Images of Science (Trinity College), and Soap Bubbles (Trinity College), these exhibitions showcase beautiful images from all areas of science.
For the more energetic, there will be a GPS treasure hunt this Sunday. Members of the public will follow a scientific trail around Dublin using the latest global positioning equipment. The route takes in the city's famous historical, cultural and scientific landmarks.
There are also events of interest to the more literary minded. The issue of "Science in Fiction" will be debated on Monday evening. Sci-fi writers, cultural historians and scientists will be on hand to discuss whether science fiction highlights issues in science or breeds distrust of scientific advancement.
On Wednesday, Making a mockery of Molecules will use actors to bring to life the molecular theories and quantum mechanics discussed in Flann O'Brien's novel, The Third Policeman.
Most of the events are free, but the BA recommends that you reserve a ticket online to avoid disappointment. The programme provides a guide to which talks will be of interest to the general public and which require some background knowledge of the topic.