Want to know what really happens in a laboratory? Want to meet scientists doing cutting-edge research in physics, medicine, biochemistry, and more? Then let’s Start Talking Science!

This First Friday, you’ll meet dozens of researchers from local universities, presenting innovative projects and answering your questions live. Stop in our museum to explore the history of science education and try out cool, quirky, and engaging science toys and games. Indulge your inner nerd, bring your curiosity, and join us for a fun-filled evening of everything STEM!

Agenda

5pm | Museum opens
6pm | Poster session begins
7pm | Museum closes
8pm | Event ends

Othmer Library Tour

We are now giving public tours of our research library every First Friday! Come by before the event at 4pm to get a behind-the-scenes look upstairs at the resources and archives available to all scientifically curious minds. Registration is not required, but space is limited. Learn more here.

About Start Talking Science

Start Talking Science is a free public event where STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) researchers present nontechnical posters to the community. We aim to increase public awareness of—and interest in—cutting-edge, local research in order to make STEM more accessible. We hope to foster insightful conversations and connections while strengthening the communication skills of researchers.

Start Talking Science is presented in partnership with Drexel University and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute.

About First Fridays

Spark your curiosity while exploring the exhibits after hours! First Fridays bring together a myriad of activities covering everyday science, historical oddities, and everything in between. Grab your friends, and kick off an evening of discovery, surprise, and a little nerdy fun.

First Fridays at the Institute are always free and open to the public. Attendees will receive a 10% discount to National Mechanics restaurant.

More events

Research fellow Eva Hemmungs Wirtén.
August 27, 2025
Free

Othmer Library Tour

Curious about the other half of the Science History Institute? Step into the Othmer Library of Chemical History!

Illustration of three microscopes.
August 30, 2025
For Families

Stories of Science: Wellness Month

Join us in our museum EVERY SATURDAY for a family-friendly program that highlights strange and surprising stories from the history of science!

opened book of dye samples looking like bowties
September 5, 2025
First Fridays

First Friday: Books, Meet Their Makers!

Explore historic sample books and accompanying art by members of the Guild of Book Workers.

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