MEMBER NEWS: Aberdeen Science Centre peers into the future of computing

February 2, 2023
MEMBER NEWS: Aberdeen Science Centre peers into the future of computing

Aberdeen Science Centre will host a talk from an expert in cybersecurity and human-computer interaction on the growing digital presence in people’s lives and what a computerised future will look like.

Sponsored by Equinor, The Future of Computing is a free evening event that will feature an insightful lecture on how our time spent online has dramatically increased in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Visitors to the centre will hear from Dr Lynsay Shepherd, a lecturer in Cybersecurity and Human-Computer Interaction in the School of Design and Informatics at Abertay University.

Dr Shepherd, who has a PhD in Usable Security and is a SPRITE+ Expert Fellow and Deputy Lead for Human Interaction and User Experience at Abertay, will explore the ever-growing world of interconnected devices and outline her thoughts on the future of computing in the era of machine learning and artificial intelligence.

Attendees to the event can also take part in a Q&A session to discuss their thoughts on the topics raised by Dr Shepherd during the night.

The Future of Computing talk will be held at Aberdeen Science Centre on Thursday, February 9 from 6.30-8.30pm.

Advance booking is not required, and admission is free, however the event is only available to those over the age of 14. Refreshments will be provided and visitors to the centre will be able to explore the exhibition floor before and after the talk.

Lynda McConnach, public and digital programme coordinator at Aberdeen Science Centre, said: “We are delighted to be hosting The Future of Computing event in partnership with Equinor. This is sure to be an interesting look at just how digital our lives have become and what the future has in store for us as we step further into an online universe.

“We cannot wait to host Dr Shepherd, a true expert in human-computer interactions, in our centre for this free to attend event. With no pre-booking required, we look forward to welcoming all those who are interested in discussing the world’s increasing digital usage to the centre.”

Arne Gürtner, senior vice president Upstream in the UK and Ireland at Equinor, said, “Cyber security is more important than ever, and it is a great privilege to be supporting the Future of Computing event. The digital world touches every aspect of our lives and it is important for us all to understand how our increasing dependence on computers and the emergence of artificial intelligence and machine learning can impact us.”

Recently awarded 5-star status by VisitScotland, Aberdeen Science Centre reopened to the public in November 2020 after a major project to create an aspirational science centre which reflects the STEM priorities for both industry and education.

The centre’s exhibits are aimed at all ages and are themed into six zones: Energy; Space; Life Sciences; Make It, Test It; and the dedicated area for the under-6s, as well as the Shell Learning Zone, where science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are brought to life.

Aberdeen Science Centre’s £4.7million redevelopment was made possible by generous support and funding from the Inspiring Science Fund – a partnership between the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and Wellcome – with additional funding provided by Opportunity North East (ONE) and Aberdeen City Council.

The project secured a further £1.5million from funders and sponsors including OPITO, Shell, Equinor, bp, The Robertson Trust, TAQA and CNOOC International to deliver quality exhibits and programmes to enhance the overall visitor experience at the venue, as well through outreach work.

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