News Release

Morehead Center’s Midday Science Series
shows diversity, excitement of Carolina research

CHAPEL HILL -- The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Morehead Planetarium and Science Center will spotlight scientific research at Carolina with a series of speakers exploring topics as diverse as ethics in genetic research and Devonian Era paleontology.

The Morehead Center introduces its new Midday Science Series this month, with seminars highlighting a different topic in the center’s NASA Digital Theater. UNC faculty members will lead the monthly seminars, presenting overviews of their research projects and inviting discussion from audience members. Each hourlong seminar begins at noon. Admission is free to the public.

Dr. Chris Martens, W.B. Aycock distinguished professor of marine sciences, will open the series on Sept. 19 with a look at research he conducts 100 feet below the surface of the Gulf of Mexico. Using the undersea research laboratory Aquarius as his base, Martens examines the impact of environmental factors of sponge production.

Dr. Wayne Christiansen, director of the Morehead Observatory and professor of physics and astronomy, will track the history of the SOAR (Southern Astrophysical Research) telescope on Oct. 12. The SOAR project evolved over 18 years before its dedication in Chile in 2004. UNC is one of four partners in the project, along with the U.S. National Optical Astronomy Observatory, the Ministry of Science of Brazil and Michigan State University.

Dr. Jim Evans, director of Clinical Cancer Genetics Services and of the Bryson Center for Human Genetics, on Nov. 14 will explore ethical dilemmas in genetic research and the implications these issues have in society’s approach to reproduction, medical care and human behavior.

Seminars for the spring semester begin in February with Dr. Pat Gensel. A professor of paleobotany and biology, Gensel is featured in the Morehead Center’s newest show, “Extinction!” Her seminar will be Feb. 13.

Dr. Laurie McNeil, chair of the department of physics and astronomy, will demonstrate the connections between physics and music in her March 20 seminar. She explores why some combinations of sounds are pleasing to the ear and others are not, as well as the reasons that different instruments make different sounds.

Dr. Vin Steponaitis will conclude the series on April 10 with a look at Moundville, a pre-Columbian ceremonial site discovered in present-day Alabama. He explores the site’s history and art, as well as the social and political context in which the site existed.

Dr. Tony Waldrop, vice chancellor for research and economic development, said the Morehead Center’s series was an effective way to engage the public in Carolina’s research mission.

“Carolina scientists are each day working to find cures for diseases or illuminate mysteries that have eluded our grasp for centuries,” he said. “With this series, our faculty will have an opportunity to demonstrate the excitement of research that is making a difference in the lives of citizens worldwide.”

Pre-registration is not required for the seminars, but seating is limited. Classes and other groups may attend but must reserve group seating in advance through the Morehead Center’s Visitor Services, (919) 962-1236.

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Morehead Center contact: Karen Kornegay, (919) 843-7952 or kck@unc.edu
News Services contact: Deb Saine, (919) 962-8415 or deborah_saine@unc.edu