Talks and shows

Scaling giants: Uncovering the secrets of the rainforest

Join canopy science expert Robin Hayward for an incredible look at the vibrant world at the top of the rainforest, and discover how scientists study this unique ecosystem.

via Pixabay

How do scientists climb some of the tallest trees in the world and what do they study once they're up there? Join Robin Hayward on a journey to the rain forest canopy. With live demonstrations of the specialist equipment that makes canopy exploration possible, Robin will take the audience through the clever engineering that gets scientists up off the forest floor and into the tops of the trees. Sharing stories from their own canopy research, Robin will demonstrate some of the amazing adaptations that the natural world has developed to create vibrant ecosystems so far from the ground. From flying lizards to plants that can drink straight from the air, the forest canopy can be an alien world, full of mysteries and opportunities to learn.

This Ri event is brought to you by Undaunted, a partnership between the Royal Institution and Imperial College London to combat the causes and effects of climate change through clean-tech innovation.

Event type

This is a theatre only event where the speakers and audience are together in our Theatre.

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.

About Robin Hayward

Robin Hayward

Robin Hayward is a science communicator and forest ecologist, currently working with the University of Leeds. Having completed their PhD researching forest restoration after logging in the Malaysian rain forest, they now work most closely with the creation and study of Gair Wood, a new research woodland in the North of England. Robin's research experience ranges from observing the youngest of seedlings to climbing to the tops of trees over fifty metres tall! They share their experiences widely through social media, schools, artwork, and science fairs, and aim to make the inspiring world of trees accessible to all.

Timing

Doors to the theatre will open at 6.45pm and the talk will begin at 7.00pm.

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