Sonic Screwdrivers and Tractor Beams: From Science Fiction to Real Life – Wednesday 8th January 2014 6pm

Science fiction has come up with many fantastical tricks and tools to move objects without human touch; such as Star Trek’s tractor beam and Dr Who’s sonic screwdriver.

Local scientists have now turned this fantasy into reality with real-world versions of sonic screwdrivers and tractor beams that use ultrasound, albeit at a much smaller scale.  The science behind all this is that ultrasound can be used generate forces, pushing, pulling, or trapping objects, and more info

this can be used on the lab bench or applied in the human body.

These research breakthroughs can develop real tools for a wide range of clinical and research applications.  Dr Mike MacDonald will talk about how we can harness these new technologies to improve diagnosis, to reduce the side-effects of cancer therapy, and for tissue engineering.

This event takes place in the relaxed atmosphere of Dundee Science Centre’s infusion cafe.

Everyone is welcome. Non-bookable. Please arrive early to avoid disappointment.