Main exhibits

Researchers are captivated by ghost-like particles known as neutrinos, which are everywhere but seldom seen! These particles, coming in three distinct 'flavours' possess the ability to 'oscillate' and transform into different flavours. Scientists capture and analyse these enigmatic particles to deepen our understanding of the universe's nature.

The ocean plays a crucial role in Earth's climate, storing 90% of the heat trapped by global warming. However, its future is uncertain. The AtlantiS Partnership represents the forefront of UK and international ocean sciences, using innovation to provide valuable datasets and insights into how a changing ocean can impact society.

Vaccines play a crucial role in preventing infectious diseases. Following the initial vaccination, antibodies and various types of immune cells experience differing rates of increase and decline. Determining the need for additional shots to enhance immunity is vital for public health, particularly with new vaccines. See how research in this field focuses on addressing these critical questions.

How fast will the Antarctic ice sheet change in the future? New research is providing some of the best evidence that parts of the Antarctic ice sheet reached a “tipping point” in the past and thus we are at increased risk of crossing another in the future.

To solve big societal challenges – from increasing computing power to energy harnessing – we need advanced materials designed with nanoscale precision and accuracy. New research looks at the creation of such materials by controlled deposition and doping of single atoms, then using powerful techniques to understand their effects.

This mission-driven research aims to make energy storage materials more sustainable: from choosing renewable building blocks, such as biomass and plastic waste or industry by-products, to advancing storage technologies alternative to lithium ion-batteries.

Scientists are using stem cell-based embryo models to study the early stages of human development, raising several questions: what does a human embryo look like between two to eight weeks old? What are stem cells? What we can learn from embryo models? And how should such models be regulated?

The JWST is our most advanced window to the Universe. Its unprecedented resolution and sensitivity is now revolutionising our view of the cosmos; providing new insights into our own Solar System, probing the atmospheres of extrasolar planets, and discovering the most distant galaxies in the Universe.

Humans have unique abilities, and we often investigate ourselves in isolation from the rest of the animal kingdom. This research explores how we became (and become) upright, walking, talking, tool-using great apes that we are today -through evolution and development, creating a bridge between us and the natural world.

What are the emerging ethical concerns and social implications of the imminent future of living with personal brain scanners? As wearable tech can now be bought for less than the price of a mobile phone, these questions are in growing need of answers. 

Mines often have a negative impact on biodiversity and environments. However, the mining industry delivers metals critical for the energy transition to limit climate change. The Bio+Mine project applies a holistic approach across biodiversity, geology, water and social sciences to inform rehabilitation measures together with local communities in the Philippines.

Dark matter makes up 85% of our universe, but scientists do not know what it is made of. Scientists are using quantum technologies at ultra-cold temperatures to build the most sensitive detectors to date in order to observe dark matter directly and solve one of the greatest mysteries in science.

Our lives are flooded with light, but its wonders are more amazing than you could imagine. Come and watch as light is twisted into a burst of colours, and brilliant green laser beams levitate tiny objects!

Researchers are investigating short wavelength deep ultraviolet light to cut away unwanted cells, like brain tumours, without harming the surrounding healthy tissues. Their goal? To deliver this light precisely using optical fibres to specific body areas without invasive procedures, using a compact, affordable light source for enhanced healthcare accessibility.

The Young Researcher Zone, open from Wednesday 3 - Friday 5 July, showcases investigative work being undertaken by school students across the UK as part of the Royal Society’s Partnership Grants scheme. Visit the zone to speak with the students about their work and try the exciting interactive activities they have created.

The Partnership Grants scheme funds schools up to £3000 to run investigative STEM projects in partnership with STEM professionals from academia or industry. To find out more visit the Royal Society website or email the Schools Engagement team at education@royalsociety.org.