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Science at Melbourne Conversations

Hear the latest perspectives in science from leading experts in their fields. Through our free public event series, we share our knowledge and love of science with the community.

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This public event series shares our knowledge and love of science with the wider community, engaging them in current research and empowering them to ask questions and take actions for a better world.

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UPCOMING EVENT

From curiosity to change: How discovery science transforms our world

Wednesday 12 August, 6-7.30pm

Some of the greatest scientific breakthroughs began with questions that seemed abstract or obscure. Yet history shows that curiosity-driven research transforms our understanding of the world and the way we live.

In 2025, the University’s own Professor Richard Robson was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for discoveries that began as curiosity-driven investigations into molecule structures but ultimately paved the way for major advances in fields ranging from clean energy storage to catalytic reactors. His achievement is a powerful reminder that transformative innovation often begins with curiosity.

Join us for a panel discussion on the value of discovery science and the role of fundamental research in shaping society. You'll hear from researchers whose fields were reshaped by work like Professor Robson’s, and learn how foundational research in chemistry, physics, biology and mathematics leads to real-world impact – often in unexpected ways.

Moira O'Bryan
The Faculty of Science is proud to share leading research, discoveries and insights with our community. We hope to spark discussion and debate and ignite curiosity about how science can improve our lives and our environment. Moira O'Bryan, Dean of Science

Past Science at Melbourne events