Talks and shows

Animal Dissection Live

Get a fascinating look at animal biology with a live dissection of an animal as part of a full afternoon of wonder for all ages.

Via Pexels Max Michin

Join Ben Garrod, from the University of East Anglia, and veterinary surgeon Jess French for a very special afternoon at the Ri, with a unique opportunity to find out about the workings of the body at a lion dissection.

Across the course of the event, Ben, Jess and their team will dissect the animal in our Theatre, explaining the anatomy as they go, and revealing the fascinating facts it can tell us about our own bodies. During an extended interval, you'll have the opportunity to explore hands-on demonstrations and activities to learn even more about how animal biology works.

This event is open to all ages. Ben and Jess are very experienced in presenting this to a younger audience, as well as adults, and we encourage everyone to attend. Attendees will be able to come and go as they please if they require a break during the long sessions. Those who are particularly squeamish may choose to sit further back in the Theatre.

Event timings: 
1:00pm – 2:30pm – Dissection Session 1 
2:30pm – 3:45pm – Interval with pop-up activities 
3:45pm – 5:00pm – Dissection Session 2

Disclaimer: The animal died of old age and has been donated for the purpose of education. The specific animal is subject to change.

With thanks to University of East Anglia for making this event possible.

Event type

This is a theatre and livestream event for an adult audience, where the speakers and audience in our Theatre are joined by our audience online. 

By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and accept the Ri's event terms and conditions. You also agree to abide by our code of conduct, and help to create a great experience for yourself and your fellow participants. Please note that Eventbrite adds a small booking fee to the amount paid for each ticket option.

For any queries regarding this event please get in touch by phone 020 7409 2992 or email events@ri.ac.uk.

This is an event at the Ri. 

About Ben Garrod

Jess French and Ben Garrod

Ben Garrod is Professor of Evolutionary Biology and Science Engagement at the University of East Anglia. He is an evolutionary biologist and primate conservationist. Ben is also a broadcaster for television and radio and have written several books, covering a range of subjects from evolution and anatomy to animal behaviour and natural history.

About Jess French

Jess French is a vet, zoologist and naturalist who has been named one of Britain’s top 50 conservationists by BBC Wildlife magazine. Jess gained her degree in veterinary medicine and surgery from the University of Nottingham, and works with animals of many sizes. She presented her own TV series on CBeebies called Minibeast Adventure with Jess and has written several books for children.

Timing

Doors to the theatre will open at approximately 12.45pm and the talk will begin at 1.00pm.

There will be an extended interval at 2.30pm, during which activities and refreshments will be available.

The second section will begin at about 3.45pm, with a finish at 5pm.

All timings are given as a guide, and are subject to alteration.

Timing for the livestream

The livestream will go live at 12.55pm and the introduction will begin at 1.00pm. If you register but miss the livestream, the video will be available to you via the same link for two weeks after the event date.

Accessibility

The event will take place on the first floor and there is step-free access from the street via lift.

The closest underground station is Green Park, which is step-free.

There is space at floor level in the theatre for wheelchair users.

Seating is usually unreserved for our events. If you and your group require seating reservations, please do let us know by emailing us at events@ri.ac.uk, and we’ll be more than happy to help.

Carers can receive a free ticket to an event by emailing events@ri.ac.uk.

Our theatre is equipped with an Audio Induction Loop. 

Event terms and conditions

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All proceeds from our affiliate links help support the charitable work of the Ri.