The expert-led discussions are designed to meet the audience where they are, using everyday language to tackle timely and relevant topics, and equip viewers with the knowledge needed to understand the current state of the world. Running for just 15-20 minutes, each episode is intended to fit into busy schedules.
The first season, filmed in 2024, covers a wide range of topics including the future of artificial intelligence, navigating the challenges of climate change, the foods of the future, the role of computer science in modern life, the impact of natural disasters on construction and the connection between data, climate change and disease mapping.
The second season running in 2025 will focus on topics including smart buildings, how to apply computer programming to your life, techniques to avoid food poisoning, why native New Zealand plants are so special, volcanoes and how they affect the ocean ecosystem. You can join our experts live every Tuesday and Thursday in May. Recordings will be made available at a later date.
Head of School of Food Technology and Natural Sciences Professor Jamie Quinton says it’s more important than ever for people to engage with science to navigate new challenges.
“We live in an information-saturated society that can feel overwhelming, and distinguishing fact from fiction is becoming more difficult. That’s where science plays a crucial role – it’s the key to understanding the world around us. When we gain insight into how things work, the world becomes far less intimidating.”
Overview of Science Webinar 2024 Series:
Cultivating the future with Professor Chris Anderson
As an expert in Environmental Science, Professor Anderson tackles the big challenges of this day and age. In this episode, he discusses the question of how to feed the world in the age of climate change. He also covers Aotearoa New Zealand’s approach to agriculture, horticulture and environmental science.
Feed your mind, feed the future with Dr Charles Diako
Food Technologist Dr Diako explores the foods of the future, offering insights into the innovative developments shaping what we’ll eat in years to come. Discover how you can contribute to the evolution of food technology and play an active role in influencing the future of our diets and food systems.
Computer Science is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes
Researchers Dr Rachel Blagojevic and Dr Amjed Tahir delve into the transformative role of computer science in today’s world. In this discussion, they share their expertise in software engineering, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, offering insights into how these fields are shaping the future of technology.
Post disaster reconstruction with Professor Regan Potangaroa
Join Professor Potangaroa, a seasoned structural engineer with an extensive career in construction, as he shares his experiences from over 200 humanitarian deployments across 22 countries. In this session, Professor Potangaroa discusses his impactful visits to regions affected by natural and humanitarian disasters, offering a firsthand look at the critical role of engineering in disaster response and recovery efforts.
Deciphering thoughts: journey towards brainwave communication using AI with Dr Yi Wang
Dr Yi Wang takes us on an exploration of the exciting possibilities that AI may offer in the future, delving into its potential to transform industries, society and our daily lives. He covers some of his current research in the fields of computer science and artificial intelligence.
Big Data and its use in Climate Change and Disease Mapping
In this episode, big data is explored for its use in climate change and disease mapping. Distinguished Professor Robert McLachlan shares how big data is being leveraged to better understand and address climate change. Associate Professor Jonathan Marshall shares insights into his research on the modelling of Campylobacter bacterial transmission through food, shedding light on the critical role of data in public health and food safety.
Related news
Webinar series to inspire future scientists
Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University’s College of Sciences are hosting a series of webinars over the next two months to showcase science at Massey and encourage increased participation in the sciences subjects.
Delivering quality teaching at Jiangnan University
Senior Lecturer Dr Charles Diako recently returned to Aotearoa New Zealand after three weeks of teaching at Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China.
Professor Regan Potangaroa recognised for a career committed to people
Professor Regan Potangaroa, Ngāti Kahungunu ki Wairarapa, has been awarded the Te Rangaunua Hiranga Māori Award by the Royal Society Te Apārangi.
