Frequently asked questions

 I haven’t used a micropipette in ages/never used a micropipette - can I still join in? Yes, we always run through how to use the pipettes before a worskshop. If you feel you would like more time to practice one of our team members can take you through how to use them a few days before the workshop. If you have never used a micropipette or worked in a lab, we suggest you take part in one of our Primary school workshops.  

I don't work in a lab as I am a bioinformatician, what is there for me? We realise that EBSOC is wet-lab based, so we have created two Public Engagment Lending Libary boxes that can be taken into schools and run in their computing classrooms.  We also recommend that  you take part in one of our Primary school workshops, as no specialist knowledge / lab techniques is/are required. 

What if I don’t know the answer to a question? No knowing the answer to a question is not a problem, and can be very empowering for a young person to see that we as adults don't know all the answers! It is also a good way to talk about how science at research level is very specialised!  Focus on how they can find the answer i.e. asking someone else (a member of the public engagment team will always be on hand to help- and even we may not know the answer!)

Is there any public speaking? No, a member public engagment team will always introduce everyone in the room. There will be a "Meet our Scientists" activity where you will speak with a small group of participants in a circle, seated on chairs, with question prompts, for 5 minutes.

How much do I need to contribute? All we ask is that you read the risk assessment before you come (looking through the presentation is optional) and be positive and encouraging with you small grooup of participants. If you wish to develop your PE skills further, there are options to deliver sections of the workshop after you support 2 workshops. 

What do you get out of being part of the EBSOC Team? Everyone participating in EBSOC workshops will receive a certificate at the end of the year detailing their participation.  Those doing full day workshops will also receive a lunch voucher for Dolly’s Café, to be used at any time.   If you are a STEM Ambassadors and/or member of the Edinburgh Volunteering Award, you can log all these workshops as valid activities.

How can being part of EBSOC help me on my public engagement journey and with other Roslin Public Engagement events/activities? It is a great way to gain some experience in a very supported environment.  Developing your skills through EBSOC workshops will increase your confidence and abilities, opening up new opportunites for you to communicate your life of science. 

Have another question? If so ask us by email ebsoc@ed.ac.uk