Research from the University of Bath has been selected to take part in a week-long celebration of science at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition in London from 1-6 July 2025.
Based in central London, this year’s Summer Science Exhibition will bring together 13 flagship exhibits from universities and science institutions across the UK to showcase their latest research with hands-on activities, talks and interactive exhibits.
Children and adults alike will get the opportunity to meet world-leading researchers from universities and science institutions across the UK – and experience how science is helping us tackle global challenges.
The University of Bath’s exhibit, NanoGlow, in collaboration with King's College London, explores how light could be used to build a more sustainable world. It brings together physicists, chemists and engineers who are harnessing energy from light to develop nano-scale materials that can turn water into hydrogen for fuel and break down pollutants.
Dr Simon Freakley, from the University of Bath’s Department of Chemistry and Institute of Sustainability and Climate Change (ISCC), is leading the team from Bath.
He said: “NanoGlow delves into the innovative use of light to power sustainable chemistry.
“By harnessing photochemical processes, we aim to develop eco-friendly solutions for energy and materials production.
“Participating in the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition allows us to share our research with new audiences, engage with the community, and emphasize the critical role of scientific research in preserving our planet for future generations.”
Other exhibits range from how quantum technologies are transforming our futures, to uncovering how vibrations help animals of every shape and size communicate and sense their environment.
Cosmologist Carlos Frenk, Fellow of the Royal Society and Chair of the Public Engagement Committee, says: “Science is vital in helping us understand the world we live in – its past, present and future. For over three decades, the Summer Science Exhibition has showcased extraordinary scientific achievements from across the UK and given visitors unparalleled access to the researchers behind these breakthroughs.
“From awe-inspiring images of our universe being captured by what’s soon to be the world’s largest radio telescope, to innovative new technologies helping to reduce plastic waste, there will be something new for every visitor of any age to discover. Come and be inspired by this unique exhibition, meet and question the exhibitors themselves.''
The event will kick off with an exclusive schools-only day on Tuesday 1 July, before the public are invited in at 6pm for an adult-only late-night opening. Public entry for all ages is from 10am Wednesday 2 July.