Scientist appointed to Dundee science centre

A University of St Andrews scientist has been appointed a Director of one of Scotland’s top science centres.

Professor Thomas Krauss, Professor of Optoelectronics and Royal Society Research Fellow at the School of Physics and Astronomy, aims to encourage more youngsters to explore the science around them and further develop the public understanding of science.

Sensation, Dundee’s Millennium project, is housed in a striking building on part of a former rail yard site with an exhibition area of 1000 square metres, nearly 20 computers with internet access and an education room designed for school visits. Visitors are encouraged to interact with over 65 exhibits themed around light, sound, position, touch, heat, taste and smell to discover how people and plants sense their environment and react to it.

Professor Krauss said, “It’s absolutely vital that scientists can communicate their work to the public and particularly youngsters, the next generation of scientists. Sensation is a prime example of interacting with science and exploring the world around us while having fun. My personal aim is to encourage Sensation to continue to grow and adapt to attract more secondary school pupils through the doors to show them that science is not only fun and relevant but an exciting and challenging career.”

Meanwhile, Sensation Chief Executive Paul Jennings said, “We are very pleased to welcome Professor Krauss onto the Science Centre Board. He has impressed me with his enthusiasm and is already making valuable contributions.”

Professor Krauss’ input into Sensation is the latest University of St Andrews contribution to the centre which already features an interactive face-changing game based on technology developed by scientists in the School of Psychology.

For more information on the School of Physics and Astronomy – recently awarded a 5 rating in the 2001 Research Assessment Exercise – visit website – http://www.st- and.ac.uk/academic/physics.

For more information on Sensation, please call (01382) 228800.

ENDS

Issued by Beattie Media on behalf of the University of St Andrews For more information please contact Claire Grainger on 01334 462530, 07730 415 015 or email [email protected] Ref: sensation- krauss/standrews/chg/22feb2002