Doors Open Day

Our last Doors Open of the season was home in Edinburgh. The problem is, when we've opened so many doors in the past, there are fewer choices of new ones to peek into. Fear not, the new Science  buildings in the BioQuarter in Little France had us spellbound.



We began at the Institute for Regeneration and Repair South, where we had a discussion about H5N1 viruses and cows, then an extended conversation with a researcher with particular interest in Parkinson's disease, using nematode worms (Caenorhabditis elegans). These are 1mm long, soil-living and feed on bacteria and easily maintained under laboratory conditions. As they share many of the essential biological characteristics that are central problems of human biology they are widely used in medical research. He is working on the relationship between the bacteria and particular genes in the worm with a view to improving treatments for Parkinsonism.


We had intended to return to see other displays as we were then due for the tour in the nearby functioning-but-not-yet-formally-opened Usher Building (main photo) which overlooks the Royal Infirmary and the IRRS.. Our guide pointed out many unique features of the building, all carefully planned for a perfect working environment - partially-baffled ceilings to reduce echo effect, large plate-glass windows to let in light (including automatic opening for the south face and mesh windows for the north for fresh air) and superb views all round. Access to the stairways is deliberately set one-way to allow socialising in passing. And the cafe serves brilliant coffee. To be honest, we should all be clamouring to work there. So what goes on there? A summary of the information given states: The Usher Institute and partners work together with people, populations and data to understand and advance health of individuals and populations through innovative collaborations in a global community. 


The landscaping at present is covered with meadow flowers (collage, top left)and many trees have been planted and more in preparation..


From here we drove to the University King's Buildings for a couple of visits but were thwarted by the timing of the tours. In the Swann building I was hoping to see the mural that had adorned the entrance to the Department of Molecular Biology in the Darwin Building, now under demolition, I had been informed that it had been removed to the Swann along with the relevant subjects. The tour times did not suit, however, there is a lovely mosaic in the foyer (collage, bottom right) so contented myself with that.


A wander round the Nucleus building provided the shadow-play image (collage, top right) along with a lot of noise and activity for children - clearly there had been a great deal of preparation for this Doors Open between the Physics and Engineering departments.


Lastly we went into the 1930's Grant Building, where the Geology Department resides, to look at the various display cabinets, check out the free leaflets (we have several from our U3A meetings) and for the finale, watch a simulated volcanic eruption - diet cola with a stack of Mentos dropped in (a popular experiment and children love it) - quite spectacular result (collage, bottom left).


And that's it for now. I wonder what Doors will Open next year?