FUTURES2023

A festival of discovery exploring the past, creating the present and imagining the future
Big planets and shining stars galaxy in space - stock photo
FUTURES returns for 2023. Join us at this free festival of discovery for all ages, where you can explore the past, create the present and imagine the future.
Funded by UK Research and Innovation, FUTURES brings research to life by giving you the opportunity to get creative, ask questions and try new things. The events showcase research innovation from the Universities of Bristol, Bath, Exeter, and Plymouth through an exciting array of free online and in-person events suitable for all ages, making learning a fun and interactive experience for the whole family.
At the University of Plymouth, we invite you to explore new innovations in science and technology, discover the issues that matter most to our community, and learn how to keep ourselves – and our planet – healthy.
Come along to meet our world-class researchers and find out more about their work – from virtual reality tours of the ocean depths to talking robotic pets and the impact of climate change on plant growth, there’s something for everyone.  Explore the future of inclusive neighbourhoods, or book your place at our in-conversation talk which will unveil the captivating world of Plymouth's urban heritage and the future it holds. You can also embark on one of our GEO walks and discover how Plymouth has evolved over the last 380 million years. 

Highly informative. Helps me stay connected to the advancements of the technology necessary for developing interactive architecture. Please organise more similar events, make research visible!

It was a great event with lots to do for all ages. Ideal for my little boy who wants to be a scientist.

University of Plymouth FUTURES2023 events

Large Group of People Listening to a PresentationDefocused shot of crowd in the lecture hall. Purposely blurred with a lens. Screening the Future: Discover Plymouth's Urban Heritage Through Film | 27 September 2023
 Share your 30-second film envisioning the city's future, explore urban planning, sustainable heritage, and smartphone potential. Join us for a world of creative possibilities and research, engage with like-minded individuals shaping Plymouth's future.

FUTURES2022 -  Dr Jodie Fisher leading a geo trail talk Stories in the Stones – GEO Trail Walks | 30 September 2023
 Dr Jodie Fisher, a specialist in fossils, minerals, volcanoes and dinosaurs be your guide around the GEO Trail.

Holding a tablet in Plymouth to view virtual information. Smart cities / smart urban futures. Future Neighbourhoods | 30 September 2023
 Join Professor Pioneer Katharine Willis and Nudge Community Builders as they delve into the future of inclusive neighbourhoods.

FUTURES2022 voyage of discovery event. Volunteers talking to children. Voyage of Discovery | 30 September 2023
Discover the wonder of science, technology, and art: an engaging interactive showcase for all ages.

Past FUTURES events

Find out more about FUTURES events from previous years

Public Engagement at Plymouth

The University of Plymouth is committed to engaging the public with its research. Our researchers work with a diverse range of communities and publics from in and around the city of Plymouth to communities right across the globe.
The public engagement team work across the University to provide advice and support, training and funding for engaged activities.
FUTURES 2022 event, talking to children