Each August, National Science Week captures the imagination of millions across Australia through thousands of science and technology events, celebrating curiosity, discovery, and innovation.
With more than three million people expected to participate nationwide this year, UniSQ is proud to contribute to this exciting celebration with a rich and diverse program tailored for both the public and science fanatics.
In 2025, UniSQ is once again showcasing the depth of its scientific expertise with a week-long series of interactive webinars and a major community science event.
With engagements delivered by the School of Agriculture and Environmental Science and the School of Engineering, these sessions provide a unique window into cutting-edge research and practical applications affecting our environment, health, and industries.
UniSQ Webinar Series: Agriculture, Environment, and Innovation
Open to everyone – including internal staff, external students, industry partners, and the wider community – this virtual event series will feature leading UniSQ researchers sharing their latest findings. Each session is hosted live via Zoom, offering attendees the opportunity to engage directly with scientists during Q&A segments.
Monday 11 August | 12pm AEST
Ursula Kennedy – “From Grape to Glass: Adapting to a Hotter Harvest”
Explore how climate change is reshaping the wine industry, from vineyard to bottle. Ursula Kennedy will discuss innovative approaches being developed to manage and adapt to hotter, drier conditions during grape harvests.
Wednesday 13 August | 12pm AEST
Dr Christina Birnbaum – “Friends with Benefits or Frenemies: The Role of Soil Biota”
Delve into the hidden world of soil life and discover how microorganisms influence plant health, crop yield, and ecological resilience.
Wednesday 13 August | 4pm AEST
Dr Antoine Trzcinski – “PFAS: What You Need to Know”
Unpack the science behind PFAS, the so-called “forever chemicals”, and their impacts on the environment and public health. This session provides crucial insights into ongoing research, risk, and remediation.
Thursday 14 August | 12pm AEST
Dr Meg Edwards – “Backyard Safari: Discover Your Wildlife Neighbours”
Perfect for families and wildlife lovers, this session reveals the incredible biodiversity living right in our own backyards and how we can protect it.
World Science Festival Queensland – Community Day in Toowoomba
Themed around the exciting worlds of robotics, aerospace, and engineering, the event on Saturday 16 August promises hands-on activities, live demonstrations, and interactive experiences for all ages. Whether you're launching rockets, coding robots, or just exploring the possibilities of space, it’s a day packed with inspiration and wonder. The UniSQ School of Engineering will attend the event to showcase innovative student projects and engaging activities for future engineers. Register now.
Discover Science in Action: UniSQ Open Day Meets National Science Week
Science will come to life at UniSQ Toowoomba's Open Day on 17 August with a range of engaging activities and experiences for all ages. From exploring the human body in 3D and extracting DNA from strawberries to hands-on clinical skills in the Medicine Pathway Experience and safely observing the sun with expert astronomers, visitors will discover the exciting possibilities of a career in science and healthcare. Register now.
Learn more about the Sciences at UniSQ.
