Kingston University showcases computing and engineering expertise to thousands of visitors at this year's New Scientist Live

Science enthusiasts and school pupils were given a taster of some of Kingston University's innovative engineering, computing and STEM outreach activities during the annual New Scientist Live festival at London's ExCel Centre earlier this month.

Thousands of visitors took up the opportunity to visit the University's stand across the three-day festival, which was run by staff and students from the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment.

The stand featured a dancing robot, a display from the Kingston University Rocket Engineering team, the Formula Student car developed by Kingston University's racing team and lots more, as well as information about the courses the University provides in this field.

Mechanical Engineering expert Dr Payam Khazaeinejad attended New Scientist Live and praised the importance of events like this. "I believe it is crucial for the Kingston to have a presence at such events, as they nurture connections between the University and the broader community," he said. "They provide a platform to highlight our cutting-edge research and academic programmes, showcasing our leadership in fields like robotics, automotive engineering, and space technology."

Dr Khazaeinejad oversaw the robot activity which proved incredibly popular with visitors across all three days. "My experience at the event was enriched with memorable interactions, especially with visitors keen on our courses in robotics and space technology, indicating a growing interest in these areas. The icing on the cake came from the commendations received from the visitors and New Scientist Live organisers, who praised the University's stand as one of the standout exhibits this year."

He also praised the team at the faculty who organised the event, Eva Ryan and Shannah Adams, for their dedication and hard work.  

Pro-Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment Professor Amir Alani also praised the team at the event. "I want to congratulate all the Kingston staff and students at New Scientist Live for their efforts this year in making the event a huge success," he said. "This kind of outreach activity is of paramount importance to us. It provides us with ample opportunity to exhibit our passion and dedication to our profession and education as well as showcasing what we offer at Kingston University, London.  

This year's New Scientist Live was one of the busiest ever with around 23,000 attendees. The event took place across three days, including a dedicated day for school pupils. It featured 80 exhibitors with five stages featuring talks with 56 prominent figures across the world of science, including wildlife photographer and 2022 Strictly Come Dancing winner Hamza Yassin as well as doctor and TV presenter Chris van Tulleken.

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