Saturday Morning Science Features MU Life Sciences Director

Sept. 6, 2007

Story Contact:  Christian Basi, 573-882-4430, BasiC@missouri.edu

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Have you ever wondered what keeps the Earth green, why you had coffee this morning, or where aspirin comes from? If so, the answers can be found at the Saturday Morning Science Series at the University of Missouri-Columbia. This program offers participants of all ages the chance to learn about science from world-renowned researchers in an interactive way. Jack Schultz, the director of the MU Bond Life Sciences Center, will start this year's series with the first lecture.

Weekly lecture sessions will cover various issues related to molecular biology, bioterrorism and chemistry, as well as the latest studies involving the brain, diabetes, heart disease and neurological disorders.

"Participants can expect to see live demonstrations, to be entertained and to want to come back for more," said Marc Johnson, professor of molecular biology professor at Mizzou. "It also gives MU scientists an opportunity to interact with the Columbia community in a fun and exciting way."

Saturday Morning Science, which is sponsored by the University Bookstore and MU Office of Research, is free and open to the public. The fall semester sessions begin Sept. 8 and continue each Saturday through Dec. 8 in Monsanto Auditorium, which is located in the Life Sciences Center. Each session starts with complimentary refreshments at 10 a.m. Discussions begin promptly at 10:30 a.m. and last one hour. For additional information, visit the Saturday Morning Science Web site.