From the “Mozart of Math” to the first person to sequence DNA in space, an impressive slate of award-winning researchers comes to Kansas City this fall for The Linda Hall: Science Library & Arboretum’s lecture series.
Since opening its doors 80 years ago, The Linda Hall has achieved acclaim for hosting the world’s preeminent thinkers. Attendance is free of charge to all who are interested in hearing from scientists at the forefront of innovation. In hundreds of programs, the Library has hosted five Nobel laureates, seven Pulitzer Prize winners, and 11 astronauts. Notable speakers include astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, physicist Brian Greene, Apollo 17 astronaut Harrison Schmitt, historians David McCullough and Dava Sobel, and architect Maya Lin.
“Our fall lecture series reflects the breadth and excitement of scientific discovery from the forces that shape our planet to the mathematics that underpins our understanding of the universe,” said Eric Ward, vice president of programs and education. “These programs invite our community to explore big ideas with some of the world’s leading scientists and scholars, strengthening science literacy and fostering a deeper appreciation for discovery.”
- Aug. 20—Tectonic Plate Collisions: Geological Train Wrecks. A geologist with Burns & McDonnell in Kansas City for 27 years, Bill Shefchik leads attendees in examination of rock samples that unveil a history spanning millennia.
- Sept. 3—Alchemy and the Scientific Revolution. What might be true about the philosopher’s stone and the elixir of life? Lawrence Principe reveals how scientists today can verify some of alchemy’s seemingly impossible claims.
- Sept. 24—A Laboratory in Orbit: What Space Teaches Us About Human Health. Drawing on research from her 300 days on the International Space Station, Kate Rubins explores how we translate discoveries from space into insights on Earth.
- Oct. 20—The Nature of Artificial Intelligence. Just how “intelligent” is AI, exactly? Prominent AI researcher Melanie Mitchell discusses our expectations and concerns regarding this technology as it continues to rapidly evolve.
- Nov. 4—From Peppers to Peppermint: How Spices Helped Unlock Secrets of Pain Sensation. Nobel Prize recipient David Julius explains how discoveries of receptors for temperature and touch unlocked the mysteries of the sense of pain.
- Dec. 3—Six Math Essentials. Known as the “Mozart of Math,” Fields Medalist Terence Tao offers an accessible introduction to the beauty and power of mathematical thinking.
The Linda Hall curates programs that are welcoming to attendees regardless of prior expertise. Lectures offer exploration opportunities for both newcomers and subject-matter connoisseurs alike; the only thing an attendee needs to bring is a desire to learn. These free programs aim to cultivate a spirit of curiosity in Kansas City and beyond—what new questions will spark your interest, and where will your journey of discovery take you?
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