It all starts with a bang

Celebrate the grand opening of Science Commons, Canada’s most advanced facility for science research and education

Inquiring minds of all ages are invited to unravel the mysteries of the universe with free hands-on activities, interactive workshops, exciting performances and opportunities to talk to Canada’s leading scientists.

Friday, September 13

9 a.m. | Traditional Blackfoot Ceremonies

Science Commons atrium | Level 7

Join individuals from across the community, together with Blackfoot Elders, as we prepare for the opening of Science Commons with a traditional Blackfoot blessing ceremony, including the offer of prayer with a pipe and the bestowing of a Blackfoot name.

11 a.m. | Official Grand Opening Ceremony

Science Commons atrium | Level 7

Join University representatives, government officials and community partners as we officially open the doors to Science Commons.

12 p.m. | Welcome Back BBQ

Science Commons atrium | Level 7

Students, faculty, staff and community members are invited for a FREE BBQ to celebrate this momentous occasion and kick off the start of another academic year.

12 – 3 p.m. | Building Tours

Tours leave from Science Commons room SA8001 | Level 8

Explore this incredible facility and learn about the research taking place right here in southern Alberta.

Book your free tour spot at the Big Bang info desk located in the Science Commons main entrance foyer.

12  – 4 p.m. | Community Open House

Throughout Science Commons

  • Beakerhead installations and activations, presented in part by Brighter Together
  • Activity zones: hands-on workshops, demonstrations and displays with uLethbridge scientists, scholars, experts and artists

1:30 – 3:30 p.m. | PUBlic Professor: 5-minute Edition

Science Commons lecture theatre SA8002 | Level 8

This fast, furious, five-minute version of our popular PUBlic Professor series showcases the range of fascinating research at uLethbridge.

View presenters

SOLD OUT | 5:30 – 10 p.m. | Big Bang Gala

Science Commons atrium | Level 7

Join us for dinner and a keynote by Jay Ingram, science broadcaster, writer and past co-host of the Discovery Channel’s Daily Planet. In his talk Watson & Crick, Lennon & McCartney, Ingram shows how both scientific and artistic creativity benefit from collaboration, competitive pressure and event luck. Presented in part by Brighter Together.

Saturday, September 14

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | 2:30 – 4 p.m. | Building Tours

Tours leave from Science Commons room SA8001 | Level 8

Explore this incredible facility and learn about the research taking place right here in southern Alberta.

Book your free tour spot at the Big Bang info desk located in the Science Commons main entrance foyer

Free: reserve a tour spot

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Community Open House

Throughout Science Commons

  • Beakerhead installations and activations, presented in part by Brighter Together
  • Activity zones: hands-on workshops, demonstrations and displays with uLethbridge scientists, scholars, experts and artists

12 – 1 p.m. | Chem Guys Show

Science Commons atrium | Level 7

Discover the fun and magic of chemistry with this explosive and interactive presentation!

1 – 2:30 p.m. | Jay Ingram’s Giant Walkthrough Brain Show

Science Commons atrium | Level 7

Enjoy a performance of the award-winning Giant Walkthrough Brain! Part science, part art and part musical, The Giant Walkthrough Brain show features dramatic 3D animations and live, original music, taking audiences on a larger-than-life virtual tour of the human brain. Presented in part by Brighter Together.