Blog: “Interesting and informative” BRC Lates event a success

BRC Operations Manager Dr Louise English reflects on the success of the second BRC Lates event in this blog.

Last Thursday night was the second BRC Lates event, on theme of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The BRC Lates event series is hosted by the BRC in collaboration with UCL Special Collections, where attendees hear a trio of scientifically linked talks spun around a BRC theme and are also able to explore UCL’s unique collection of rare books, archives and manuscripts.

This sell-out event was hosted by Prof Aroon Hingorani, BRC Theme lead for Cardiovascular Diseases and included talks from Prof Alun HughesDr William MacLehoseDr Reecha Sofat. Speakers explored the theme of cardiovascular disease from rising incidence of CVD from mass-manufactured cigarettes, to explaining how William Harvey’s influential 17th century textbook on circulation De motu cordis (1628) was a game-changer in its depiction of circulation of the blood. Attendees also found out how genomics is being used to predict/monitor CVD.

In general, people enjoyed the range of presentations over the evening and loved looking at the books. On display was as an original edition of Harvey’s textbook as well as the Robert Carswell Illustrations (1827-1838), still prized today for their accurate depiction of the colour of diseased tissues.

In total 54 people were in attendance, and feedback included:

"Good choice & spectrum of speakers"

"Informative and diverse in its historical and contemporary perspectives"

"It was both interesting and informative"

"Good talks, great to see some original books!”

Our next event is on December 5th, on the theme of hearing and deafness. Attendees will be able to view some rare historical sign language items from the UCL and Action on Hearing Loss collection. Guest speakers include Prof David Kemp who will outline his journey in translating basic research into a now standard test for hearing in newborns. Prof Bencie Wollwill discuss the history of British Sign language. And Dr Peter Keating will highlight the latest hearing research.

This event is open to all with wine, soft drinks and nibbles provided. Tickets for the Hearing and Deafness event are available on Eventbrite.