The sold-out event, entitled "The Wonderful World of Pharmacy: Living Longer, Better Lives with Medicines", offered a fun-packed programme of hands-on activities, experiments, and demonstrations designed to showcase the vital roles that pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists play in improving patient care and advancing healthcare innovation.
 
Attendees of all ages had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of pharmacy, exploring how medicines are developed, how diseases affect the body, and how the latest innovations in drug delivery and pharmaceutical science are transforming the treatment of infections, cancers, and chronic conditions. Participants also gained first-hand insight into how pharmacists optimise medicine use across a wide range of therapeutic areas, helping patients live longer, better lives.
 
The evening celebrated the enthusiasm of the next generation, with budding pharmaceutical scientists and future pharmacists taking part in a range of engaging activities throughout the night. Prize winners were recognised for their efforts, and all attendees received a goodie bag featuring an exclusive new comic, "Arctic Strain", created by Thomas Thompson and Nate Donnell, bringing pharmaceutical science to life through the power of storytelling and illustration.

Visitors received a copy of the new comic, "Artic Strain", created by Dr Thomas Thompson from the School of Pharmacy, and artist Nate Donnell.
 
Professor Gavin Andrews, Head of the School of Pharmacy at Queen's, said:

"Events like these reflect our School's deep commitment to public engagement and to nurturing curiosity about science and pharmacy among people of all ages. The energy and enthusiasm shown by everyone who attended, particularly our younger guests, gives us tremendous confidence that the future of pharmaceutical science and pharmacy practice is in excellent hands. Many thanks go to all School staff who contributed to making this event such a success."

Professor Sharon Haughey, the School's organisational lead for the event, added:

"We had a fantastic evening again this year.  It was great for our visitors to see and experience how research, education, and practice come together to improve health and transform lives. Thanks to all involved."

The event was made possible through the support of the Northern Ireland Science Festival (NISF), which provides a platform for researchers and institutions across Northern Ireland to share their work with the wider community. The School of Pharmacy has been a regular contributor to the festival, using the occasion to open its doors and demonstrate the breadth and impact of its teaching and research.

Images from the event can be viewed below.

This exciting evening formed part of the wider Northern Ireland Science Festival programme, which celebrates science, technology, and innovation across the region. More information about the Festival, including other events taking place at Queen's, is available on the NISF website.

Media

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