OMSI Science Pubs at Kennedy School and the Museum

Photo by Samuel Sweet

Bring your appetite for food, drinks and knowledge to OMSI Science Pubs. These events invite people of all ages to learn about an interesting science topic in a friendly, fun environment. 

OMSI Science Pubs are monthly events that celebrate the marvel of science with food and drinks. Some of the science pub topics focus on what’s happening right here in Oregon, while others take you around the world to explore the many wonders of our planet.

Here’s the information on topics, dates and tickets:

OMSI Science Pubs

Events are held at McMenamins Kennedy School and OMSI.

At Kennedy School, you can get dinner, snacks and drinks throughout the presentation. Options range from pizza to burgers to popcorn and candy. And don’t forget the cajun tots. 

The Theory Restaurant serves specialty pizzas, bright salads, seasonal soups and sweet treats. 

Tickets

Tickets are a $5 donation to OMSI per person. Advance tickets are recommended. There will be a limited number of tickets available at the check-in table. Tickets at the door are first come, first served.

If you are unable to join in person, you can watch on Zoom. You’ll need to register at a special link at each event page.

Upcoming Topics and Dates

What Are We Really Seeing? How Our Brains Manipulate the Visual World

McMenamins Kennedy School

When we open our eyes, how are we perceiving reality? Why do we fail to agree on the color of  the viral dress in 2015? Neuroscience research says the brain evolved to make rapid, best-guesses about the objects in our environment.

During this talk, Dr. Mark Pitzer discusses how our visual system highlights some objects, delete others, and alters our conscious awareness in an attempt to help us navigate our visual world through stories and demonstrations.

This science pub is Tuesday, November 19, from 7-9 p.m. at Kennedy School. Doors open at 6 p.m. Get tickets for this science pub. 

Turtle Talk! Oregon’s Western Pond Turtles

OMSI

Biologist Chelsea Waddell introduces you to the Northwestern pond turtle, one of only two Oregon native turtles. This wide-ranging species is found in Washington, Oregon, California and Nevada. In recent years, their populations have declined due to loss of habitat, invasive predators and climate change. In the spirit of collaborative conservation, wildlife managers are working with conservation partners to ensure populations recover and thrive.

In this talk, you’ll learn about these turtle’s unique biology, ecological needs, stressors and what scientists and you can do to help these incredible critters. Chelsea Waddell is a biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Portland, Oregon.

This science pub is Tuesday, December 3, from 7-9 p.m. at OMSI. Doors open at 6 p.m. Get tickets for this science pub. 

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