Science on Tap
Science on Tap is a monthly science café in Philadelphia for anyone interested in getting together with other people to discuss a range of engaging science topics. It is held the second Monday of (most) every month.
Located at National Mechanics, a relaxed, convivial bar in Old City, Science on Tap features a brief, informal presentation by a scientist or other expert followed by lively conversation. The goal is to promote enthusiasm for science in a fun, spirited, and accessible way, while also meeting new people. Come join the conversation!
Science on Tap is presented by a consortium of five Philadelphia institutions:
For more information, follow Science on Tap on Facebook, or e-mail scienceontapphilly@gmail.com.
Upcoming Science on Tap Events
- February 13, 2012
M. Susan Lindee, “Violence in the Laboratory: How Science Changed War and War Changed Science”
Presented by the American Philosophical Society Museum
- March 12, 2012
Topic TBA
Presented by the Wagner Free Institute of Science
- April 9, 2012
Mark Sabaj Pérez, “Mongolian Fish Hunt”
Presented by the Academy of Natural Sciences
- May 14, 2012
Topic TBA
Presented by the Mütter Museum of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia
Full program information on past talks can be found on the pages listed below.
June 2011
Evi Numen gave a talk illustrated with selections from The Historical Medical Photography Collection of the Mütter Museum.
Thaddeus Phillips introduced a theater piece that explored worldwide communication systems, sub-oceanic fiber optics, and humpback whale songs.
With a spicy illustrated talk, biochemist Joseph Rucker shared his interest in the history and science of chile peppers.
Jonathan Seitz, a historian of science, magic, and religion, took us through the theoretical and practical sides of European demonology.
Jason C. Poole described the efforts of a multi-organization team that excavated a super-massive dinosaur fossil in Argentina.
March 2011
Christine Bartos, curator of ungulates and small mammals at the Philadelphia Zoo, talked about some of the physical adaptations of giraffes.
January 2011
Annie Brogan, college librarian of the Mütter Museum, talked about Yellow Fever epidemics in Philadelphia. Presented by the Mütter Museum of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia.
The Academy of Natural Sciences presented the final installment of Science on Tap in 2010, during which botanist David Hewitt revealed everything you always wanted to know about fertilizer but didn’t know to ask.
November 2010
Scott McRobert, Professor of Biology offered a behind-the-scenes look at the Biodiversity Laboratory at Saint Joseph's University, which houses hundreds of rare, exotic and highly endangered animal species. Presented by the Wagner Free Institute of Science.
October 2010
James Fleming examined solutions to aerial problems, including global warming, from a historical perspective. This tragicomic history is filled with scientists, soldiers, and salesmen, weaving together stories from elite science, cutting-edge technology, and popular culture.
September 2010
Beauvais Lyons, director of the Hokes Archive, combined visual art and performative dialogue at this one-of-a-kind presentation.
July 2010
Lisa Rosner discussed her new book and other works on the seamy side of the history of medicine.
June 2010
Chemist and oceanographer David Velinsky teased out the details of the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and discussed where the risks lie from oil in the oceans.