Our popular online masterclasses – held each year during the Science at Melbourne Festival – are a series of 60-minute lectures showcasing University of Melbourne scientists and their research.
Expect engaging presentations, interactive Q&A, live demonstrations and plenty of fun!
Can we spot a problem before it happens? The science of horse health
Thursday 13 August, 2-3pm
What can a horse’s movement tell us about its health? Streaming live from the Werribee campus, join University of Melbourne researcher Peta Hitchens and explore how vets and scientists act as detectives – identifying subtle changes in behaviour, movement and performance that can signal a problem. From hands-on assessments to analysing data patterns over time, discover how science is helping spot issues earlier and support better welfare outcomes for horses.
Advanced analysis of stone tools tells ancient stories
Monday 17 August, 2-3pm
Museums, universities and other institutions have collected many cultural artefacts that belong to Indigenous communities, including stone tools – the research focus of archaeologist and geochemist Dr Michelle Richards and Microtrace Archaeology Director, Dr Elspeth Hayes. Streaming live from the Parkville campus, discover how the origins of these tools are often mysterious: how old are they and where do they come from, exactly? New, non-destructive analytical techniques can answer these questions, trace the technological developments of ancient cultures, and show how Indigenous peoples interacted with each other and with early settlers across Australia and the Pacific. This research reconnects communities with their precious cultural heritage.
What do cow burps have to do with climate change?
Thursday 20 August, 2-3pm
Discover how University of Melbourne agricultural scientists are leading research to reduce methane emissions from livestock, which account for about 70 per cent of greenhouse gases in Australia's agricultural sector. Streaming live from our Dookie campus, learn how methane from cattle contributes significantly to Australia’s greenhouse gases—and the innovative strategies being developed to reduce it. From feed additives to smarter farming practices, explore how science is helping transform agriculture for a more sustainable future.