Dr Kelsey Byers, Research Associate Butterfly Genetics Group: Department of Zoology
In 1879 Charles Darwin wrote that the rapid diversification of flowering plants was an “abominable mystery” and, citing Gaston de Saporta, suggested that the relationship between flowering plants and insect pollinators was responsible for flowering plant diversity. Flowering plants attract insect pollinators with a wide variety of signals which advertise the availability of floral rewards such as nectar and pollen.
Professor Ottoline Leyser, Director: Sainsbury Laboratory Cambridge University
Plants in the natural world are the products of evolution by natural selection. Their genes work in concert to allow them to survive environmental challenges, defend themselves from predators and pathogens, and successfully reproduce, passing their genes on to the next generation.
Professor Jim Haseloff, Head of Group Synthetic Biology for engineering plant growth: Department of Plant Sciences
The liverworts are descendants of the earliest land plants. They are characterised by simple forms and genome architectures. Liverwort biology has been a neglected area of plant science, but recent technical advances have accelerated the field, and offer exciting new experimental approaches.
Dr Boris Delahaie, Research Associate Evolution & Development: Department of Plant Sciences
Flowering plants are the most diverse taxonomic group of land plants, with an estimated total of more than 350,000 species on earth. To understand the origins of diversity, scientists are studying the processes that are generating and, then, maintaining this exceptional biological diversity.
Our snowdrop map, available at the Garden’s ticket offices, will guide you to the Garden’s snowdrop ‘hot spot walking routes’ where you’ll see our snowdrops growing and discover more about snowdrop science, history, folklore and cultivation from information panels in these areas.
The snowdrops displays should last throughout January and February.
Participants will be given a tree trail map and a booklet to help with identification, or you can test your own knowledge. We will be running two different trails. For those who don't want to walk far we have a short tree trail, and for those who would like to explore more of the trees at the Botanic Gardens we have a longer trail.
Researchers from the Department of Plant Sciences will also be explaining why identification of tree species is important for protecting them against disease, and what you can do to help us protect trees against disease in the future.
Participants will be given a tree trail map and a booklet to help with identification, or you can test your own knowledge. We will be running two different trails. For those who don't want to walk far we have a short tree trail, and for those who would like to explore more of the trees at the Botanic Gardens we have a longer trail.
Researchers from the Department of Plant Sciences will also be explaining why identification of tree species is important for protecting them against disease, and what you can do to help us protect trees against disease in the future.
Bringing all lovers of science together for hands-on activities, meet the researchers to explore new ideas and immerse yourself in the wonders of science. Family drop in.
