The Cafe Scientifique Network

Cafe Scientifique is a place where, for the price of a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, anyone can go to explore the latest ideas in science and technology. Cafe Scientifique meetings always take place outside a traditional academic context, usually in cafes, bars, restaurants and even theatres, with the audience generally consisting of people who are interested in science but rarely have the opportunity to discuss their views with, and ask questions of, someone ‘in the know’. No scientific knowledge is assumed by the speakers, so anyone can participate. The first Cafes Scientifiques were held in the UK in 1998. From there, cafes sprang up in Newcastle, Nottingham and Oxford and then gradually spread throughout the UK and hence overseas. Currently, over 30 cafes meet regularly to hear scientists or writers on science talk about their work and discuss it with diverse audiences. Anyone interested in bringing Café Scientifique to their home town? Apply here.