From Nano Containers to Cabbages: Durham BSI Researchers Engage Audiences at Pint of Science 2026

15 July 2026

Jo Hepworth Delivering Pint of Science talk

For the fifth consecutive year, the Biophysical Sciences Institute (BSI) was proud to sponsor Pint of Science Durham, helping to bring cutting-edge research out of the University and into the heart of the community.

From Nano Containers to Cabbages: Durham BSI Researchers Engage Audiences at Pint of Science 2026

The 2026 Pint of Science festival ran from 18–20 May, showcasing cutting-edge research in a range of relaxed, non-academic settings across the city. The events attracted sold-out audiences from a wide range of backgrounds, demonstrating the enthusiasm for science across the wider community.

The Durham festival was organised by a talented team of volunteers, including BSI Early Career Researchers Lauren Billett (Chemistry), who led the 2026 team, and Alex Newbold (Physics). For Lauren and Alex, the 2026 festival marked their final year as volunteers, having played a key role in delivering Pint of Science Durham since 2023.

The feedback from attendees shows exactly why events like this matter:

"Super diverse event."

"Excellent talks, really enjoyed the session and gained a lot of new knowledge. Thanks!"

"What a fab idea! I would happily attend one of these every week!"

"Very interesting for a non-scientist. Thanks!"

Exploring Science from Molecules to Ageing

BSI members contributed a diverse programme of talks highlighting the breadth of research taking place across our community.

Dr Stefan Borsley, Royal Society University Research Fellow, invited audiences into the microscopic world of molecular machines in his talk Wrestling With Demons: How Do We Control How Molecules Move?

In The Hidden Mechanical Code of DNA, Dr Aakash Basu, Assistant Professor and Royal Society University Research Fellow, revealed how DNA contains not only genetic information but also a "mechanical code" that influences how cells read and interpret genes.

Representing the next generation of researchers, William Hall, a PhD student in Biological Sciences, presented his PhD research on the development of protein-based nanocontainers in Building Nature's Tiny Nanocontainers. His research, in the group of Professor Jonathan Heddle, focuses on engineering self-assembling protein cages that could one day be used to deliver medicines directly to specific cells and tissues.

Dr Jo Hepworth presented Cold Cabbage, Hot Mustard and Boring Little Weeds: Understanding How Plants Feel the Cold, exploring how plants sense and respond to seasonal change. Healthcare and natural medicines were the focus of Professor Paul Chazot's talk, Nature is the Best Chemist. Finally, Professor David Weinkove asked the intriguing question: Do Our Gut Microbes Influence How We Age? Drawing on his research into ageing and innovative approaches to studying it, he discussed how interactions between humans and their microbial communities may help us remain healthier for longer.

Bridging the Gap Between Research and Society

Through our continued sponsorship of Pint of Science, we help support the brilliant ECRs who are passionate about bringing cutting-edge science to wider audiences and sharing their excitement and enthusiasm for new discoveries. The festival brought together researchers, students and local residents, creating opportunities to ask questions, challenge assumptions and discover how relevant science is to everyday life.

Looking Ahead

Public engagement remains a priority for the BSI beyond Pint of Science. Following the summer vacation, we will launch a new programme of community talks at Durham Amateur Rowing Club, beginning in November 2026.

The new Saturday Morning Science series will continue the tradition of bringing world-class research to local audiences in an accessible and welcoming environment, creating further opportunities for conversation, learning and discovery.

Find out more about the upcoming programme: Saturday Morning Science – Durham University.