We think that one of the great things about the Open Science Lecture Series held here at BGS is that some of the lectures explore areas that are completely beyond the syllabus; this particular lecture was a great example of this.
Before the lecture, we were unaware of the unique icefish, which are the only known vertebrate that did not have respiratory pigments, producing ghostly white blood, as well as having massive hearts and extra wide blood vessels. To learn how these species have adapted to the extreme environment of the Antarctic was very interesting. Furthermore, we liked the aspect of Professor Egginton’s lecture, when he discussed how the changing climate due to global warming could affect the lives of icefish, who have spent a thousand years trying to adapt to such harsh, cold environments.
Professor Egginton explained the scientific concepts very well, showing his understanding of this subject. In addition, the lecture was enhanced by Professor Egginton’s experience as a researcher, who annually travels to Antarctica to continue his research. Overall, we were both took away lots of new and interesting knowledge from the lecture, as well as some insight on what it is like to be a scientific researcher in Antarctica, which was quite intriguing.
Oliver Theaker, Physics teacher said: “These free lectures have proven very popular so far. Whether you have links to the School or this is the first time you have heard about us, please look out for our upcoming events and we look forward to seeing you there!”
The next lecture in the series is an astronomy based lecture by Dr Catherine Walsh. Book your place here.
Past lectures include:
- The Birth and Death of a Solar System – Prof. John Richer, Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge
- Primeval Slime – Dr Mike Ries, University of Leeds
- Extremophiles: Using Physics to understand life in extreme environments – Dr Lorna Dougan, University of Leeds
Lectures are usually held during the final two weeks of each term
Find out more about Bradford Grammar School’s free public events
“Before the lecture, we were unaware of the unique icefish, which are the only known vertebrate that did not have respiratory pigments, producing ghostly white blood, as well as having massive hearts and extra wide blood vessels.
To learn how these species have adapted to the extreme environment of the Antarctic was very interesting.”
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