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Illinois IGB

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Science Unexpected

Gameday Genomics

The IGB's motto is "Where Science Meets Society" and in addition to the regularly scheduled events we hold, we also like to show up in places unannounced to engage with people in new and exciting locations ... we call that Science Unexpected and we've had some wonderful interactions with members of the community who had a chance to learn about science and the IGB as a nice surprise.

In collaboration with the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA), the IGB brought Game Day Genomics to Grange Grove as part of the tailgating celebration before Illinois home football games. With genomic-themed tailgating games, hands-on activities like the DNA extraction shown above, and the opportunity to take #cellfies in front of the IGB photo banner with science props, fans of all ages can learn something new.

The IGB and the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology co-sponsor the Chambana Science Café, a monthly seminar series that brings scientists to the public to talk about their research in an informal setting. The talks are held on the first Wednesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at Cafeteria and Company, and there is free pizza while it lasts.

You never know where you'll run into artwork from our Art of Science exhibits, whether at I Hotel, Cafe+Company, Willard Airport, Broadway Food Hall, or even nationally at the St. Louis Science Center, MATTER in Chicago, and the National Institutes of Health Library Hall in Maryland.

During Illini Fest, visitors in the downtown Chicago area were able to learn about the institute and genomics by doing DNA extractions as part of the IGB's interactive booth.

Visitors to the Urbana Farmer's Market should make a point to check out Science at the Market, where you can find a variety of scientific experts from all over campus including the IGB to give demonstrations, answer questions, run activities, and communicate the depth of research endeavors to be found at our university.