The Open Call for event and activity proposals for the British Science Festival 2026 is now open!

The British Science Festival will take place in Southampton from the 16 – 20 September 2026, hosted by our University. So whether you are an artist, a community/business representative or a researcher – over 15,000 people will be descending to Southampton in 2026 to hear inspiring stories and encounter exciting new discoveries that are changing the world, and they want to hear from you.

In this month’s Staff Matters, we’re talking to Professor Jo Slater-Jefferies, CEO of the National Biofilms Innovation Centre, School of Biological Sciences, about her experience of exhibiting at the British Science Festival (BSF) in Liverpool this year.

Q: Why did the National Biofilms Innovation Centre (NBIC) decide to take part in the British Science Festival (BSF) in Liverpool?

This September, the National Biofilms Innovation Centre (NBIC) were proud to take part in the British Science Festival (BSF) in Liverpool, a celebration of science, innovation, and public engagement. The festival brought together researchers, industry leaders, and the public to explore how science shapes our lives. For NBIC, it was an opportunity to share the fascinating world of biofilms and their impact on health, industry, and the environment. Our team welcomed visitors to an interactive drop-in experience at the Bluecoat Gallery titled ‘Welcome to Microbe City.’

The festival offered us a powerful platform to connect with people far beyond the lab, from curious school students to influential policymakers, and to show why biofilms truly matter. We saw first-hand how curiosity can spark meaningful conversations, inspire future scientists, and strengthen public understanding. It was also a chance to showcase NBIC’s collaborative spirit and the strong partnerships we share with universities across the UK, reinforcing the importance of research that tackles real-world challenges.

Q: Tell us about the activity in Liverpool?

Visitors to the ‘Welcome to Microbe City’ exhibit stepped into a series of hands-on experiences, from an immersive video installation introducing the world of biofilms to a showcase of the research underway at NBIC and the University of Liverpool’s Open Innovation Hub for Antimicrobial Surfaces. They also had the chance to try out the 6-step hand hygiene procedure using a fluorescent light-box activity, generously provided by our partners in the Safeguarding Health through Infection Prevention group at Glasgow Caledonian University. The exhibit featured real-life examples of how biofilms and microbes shape our everyday lives, alongside our popular ‘Build a Lego Biofilm’ activity, which brings the complexity of biofilms to life in a fun and accessible way. By creating interactive moments like these, we aim to spark curiosity and encourage a deeper appreciation of the microscopic world.

Q: Why is it so exciting that BSF is coming to Southampton in 2026?

Next year, the British Science Festival arrives in Southampton, offering a standout moment for our region. Hosting the Festival will shine a spotlight on the cutting-edge research taking place here and deepen connections between universities, industry, and the wider community. For NBIC, it’s a chance to engage local audiences, highlight our role in tackling global challenges, and support the University’s ambition to lead in innovation and impact.

Q: What is the value in taking part in events like these?

Events like the British Science Festival help broaden the reach of science. During the festival, we were even visited by Australian news outlet ABC Radio National and interviewed for ‘The Science Show’ podcast, which you can listen to here. It was a fantastic opportunity to share why biofilms matter, not just with festival-goers, but with listeners around the world. These events play a vital role in demystifying complex topics, building trust in research, and encouraging collaboration. For NBIC, participation aligns with our mission to connect science with society and foster partnerships that drive innovation. It is not just about showcasing what we do, it is about listening, learning, and inspiring.

Q: What would you say to academics who are thinking about submitting an idea for next year’s BSF in Southampton?

The British Science Festival is a brilliant chance to take your research beyond the lab and connect with audiences you might not normally reach – from school groups to policymakers. It’s an opportunity to spark curiosity, inspire future scientists, and show how your work tackles real-world challenges. With the festival coming to Southampton, it’s a perfect moment to showcase the strengths of our region, build new collaborations, and amplify the impact of your research in a way that’s both rewarding and energising.

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