About the Day
Sign up for our taster day to discover what it would be like to study Chemistry and/or Food and Nutritional Sciences at degree level. You will have the opportunity to meet current staff and students, and explore the campus and the benefits of studying at Reading.
As an attendee, you will participate in two hands-on sessions. You will have the option to choose either both sessions in the same subject area or one from each subject. Every session will cover different content.
General Chemistry (morning)
Curious about chemistry? Step into the lab and get hands-on with real research. Join us for an interactive lab session where you'll explore the green, solvent-free synthesis of chalcones – a fascinating class of bioactive compounds – and characterise them via spectroscopy.
Chalcones are key building blocks in pharmaceutical research, with potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anticancer properties. They are also of interest in cosmetic formulations due to their antioxidant activity, making them valuable in skincare and anti-aging products.
Explore the university lab experience, work with sustainable chemistry techniques, and discover how chemistry impacts the world around us.
Cosmetic Chemistry (afternoon)
Ever wondered what goes into your favourite skincare and beauty products? Step into the lab and experience the science behind cosmetics. In this interactive session, you'll get the chance to formulate, test and personalise your very own cosmetic product before packaging it in a professional container.
From luxurious lotions to innovative personal care, cosmetic science combines chemistry, creativity and cutting-edge research to develop products that are safe, effective and sustainable. This hands-on session will give you a taste of what it’s like to be a cosmetic chemist, working with real ingredients and industry techniques.
Flavour Illusions: Exploring the Science of the Senses (morning)
Step into the world of sensory science with this activity. You will explore how your senses work together to perceive aromas and flavours through fun experiments that challenge your expectations. From blind taste tests to aroma identification, this activity will showcase the surprising ways our brains interpret sensory information.
Sustainability Challenge: Mayo Reimagined (afternoon)
In food manufacturing there are often different needs to consider. In this session, you will explore how to reformulate mayonnaise for different needs – such as reduced fat, enhanced flavour, or plant-based alternatives – whilst considering nutrition, technology, sensory and business factors. You will have the opportunity to test and compare the viscosity of a few different mayonnaise formulations, within the University pilot plant, to see how reformulation can affect the product's properties.
Information
This taster day will be held at our Whiteknights campus and will run from approximately 10:00 to 15:30 (or 16:30 with an optional campus tour), allowing you time to really immerse yourself in the subject and relevant department.
Making the most of your taster day
- Let us know of any accessibility requirements.
- Check if you’re eligible for a travel bursary.
- Make sure to arrive with plenty of time. You will be sent a schedule for the day about a week before the event.
- Think about what you want to get out of the day, and prepare any questions for staff and students.
FAQs
What should I wear for the taster day?
Wear loose, comfortable clothes that cover your legs, and make sure long hair is tied up. Wear sensible shoes (closed toe, no sandals or Crocs).
Can I take photos/videos of the experiments?
Yes, but please remove any gloves before handling your phone to avoid cross-contamination, and do not leave your phone in lab coat pockets or on the benchtop.
Will there be tasting involved in the food science sessions?
Yes, in some sessions there will be a chance to taste different food products. Before the session, you can highlight any allergies and dietary requirements which we will do our best to accommodate. Otherwise, you can opt out of this part of the session.
Can I park on site?
You can park on site for the taster day, but you will need to collect a parking permit and display it in your vehicle for the duration of the event. Parking permits can be collected at the registration point.
For more information please email outreach@reading.ac.uk.
Is there somewhere to buy lunch?
We will provide a free lunch. Please make sure you communicate any dietary requirements when you register for the event.