SISSA, University of Trieste

Trieste BAW program included a variety of events to engage different targets, from secondary school students to adults: laboratories, science cafes and more. Main topics were the five senses and congitive enhancement. In general we had a good participation, with variations probably due to time and location. Here are all the events organised: “Brain computer interfaces.” A workshop with a combination of seminars and practical tutorials to discover the latest advancements and devices in the field. “Flavour and brain: a journey through the world of senses”. A seminar-laboratory for secondary school students with experts’ talks and the interactive travelling exhibition Flavour SenseNation to explore the role of our senses in the perception of flavour and foods. “Neurogastronomy: How the Brain Creates Flavor”. A seminar-laboratory organized as the one above for the general public. “Brain without limits.” A sceince cafè with experts in neuroscience, physiology and pharmacology on the risks and benefits of using drugs and technologies for cognitive enhancement. “International Brain Bee.” Regional phase of the National Competition. “Senseless”. A public round table to address the origin and challenges of sensory loss through an interesting combination of talks, audio and video material. “Limitless.” Movie projection with comments from a neurophysiologist. “Neurocomic”. Presentation of the graphic novel with the neuroscientist and illustrator Farinella.

Being part of the BAW is a nice way for reasearch institutes or organisation to get closer to society and let the citizens know what they are working on and why it matters. In another way these events allow people to find out more about them and the possibilities that science offers or may be offering them in the future.