Dr. Singh to discuss brain function at Science Cafe

UNMC neurologist Sanjay Singh, M.D., will discuss how the brain works today at 7:30 p.m. during a Science Cafe at the Slowdown in downtown Omaha.

Free pizza will be provided by Nebraskan Coalition for Lifesaving Cures for the first 50 people to arrive at the bar, which is at 729 N. 14th St.

Last Tuesday, 80 people gathered inside Slowdown to hear UNMC’s William Thorrell, M.D., discuss brain aneurysms during Omaha’s first Science Cafe.

Sanjay Singh, M.D.

“The turnout was well beyond our team’s expectations for the first Science Cafe,” said Amber Donnelly, Ph.D., director and assistant professor in the UNMC Cytotechnology Program and a member of the UNMC-led science literacy team that introduced the idea of science cafes in Omaha. “One thing that really surprised me was how quiet it was in the bar when he was speaking and how intent the people were on what he was saying.”

The events are hosted by UNMC, Bio Nebraska and the Nebraska Coalition of Lifesaving Cures and are part of an effort by UNMC and other groups to increase the population’s science literacy.

A more scientifically literate populace is a goal in UNMC’s strategic plan. Dr. Donnelly and others on a 17-member team composed of UNMC faculty and staff, as well as Omaha area community leaders, are addressing the issue.

Science Cafes are a way to bring people together for informal science discussions at local coffeehouses and bars. Sparking interest in science among young adults is one of the primary objectives of the events.

“I can’t wait to see how many people come (today),” Dr. Donnelly said. “There might be standing room only.”

For more information on the Science Cafes, visit www.unmc.edu/sciencecafe.