The global Pint of Science festival took place across 29 countries 18-20 May. The Pint of Science festival aims to deliver interesting and relevant talks on the latest science research in an accessible format to the public, and is mainly held in bars, pubs, cafes and other public spaces. The international festival, which started in the UK in 2013, provides a platform which allows people to discuss research relevant to them with the scientists who carry it out.
For the fourth year, Laos joined the festivities with two nights of scientific talks held at Corebeer, and organised by the LOMWRU team. On Mon 19 May, hosted by Drs Somxay Dadivong and Amelia Benjamin, the line-up featured LOMWRU alumni Dr Anousin Homsana (Lao TPHI) who introduced Cholangiocarcinoma in Southern Laos: The True CCA Champion of the World; Lee Williams (PhuBia), who discussed Land of a Million Rocks: An Introduction to Mineral Exploration in Laos; and Somkhit Phonexaiya (LCTW), who explained Day in the life of an LCTW vet nurse.
The following evening, 20 May was hosted by Drs Manophab Luangraj and Anousone Duangnouvong, and introduced Phengsavanh Xaiyavong (IRD) discussing Who’s Sharing What? Uncovering Gastrointestinal Parasite Connections between Elephants, Cattle, and People in Laos; Jay White (WCS) sharing his involvement in Conservation biology of gibbons in Laos; and finally LOMWRU’s very own Dr Koukeo Phoummasone who spoke on Preparing for the next pandemic.
The events were a great success, with 239 people attending over the two nights.
A big thank you to the Pint of Science Laos team: Aeo Vongratsavai, Amelia Jane Benjamin, Anousone Douangnouvong, Danoy Chommanam, Kaisone Padith, Latsaniphone Boutthasavong, Manilung Nalongsack, Manophab Luangraj, Matt Robinson, Padthana Kiedsathid, Saisathit Keomeuangneua, Sompong Thammavong, Somxay Dadivong, Souchittra Chanthamith, Tamalee Roberts, Vanheuang Phommadeechack, Vilaiphone Phomsisavath, and Vilayouth Phimolsarnnousith.
- With thanks to Matt Robinson for text and photos.