"Conversas Improváveis" is an initiative of the communication action group of the Metabolism, Aging and Disease (MAD) research line of the Center for Innovation in Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB) of the University of Coimbra, and aims to foster science and health literacy with informal discussions, to promote awareness of various diseases, and encourage early and informed actions and decisions, ultimately contributing to a healthier society.
Fundamental topics of metabolism, non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, obesity, infertility, mitochondrial and age-related diseases, the importance of diet and active lifestyles for lifelong health, holistic perspectives on health and well-being, namely the 'one health' concept will be addressed. The talks bring together guests from academia and beyond, including entrepreneurs, teachers from all levels of education, non-profit organizations, as the involvement of all stakeholders helps to improve communication and research. The idea was launched in November 2021 at a retreat in the MAD area. This year, a monthly edition is planned, on the first Thursday of each month.
The initiative will take place in various iconic locations at the University of Coimbra, a World Heritage Site and UNESCO Headquarters, namely the Science Museum, the Botanical Garden, the multiple libraries and the Paço das Escolas, just to name a few. In this way, the scientific culture and tradition of our academy will be promoted. Cultural moments or ongoing activities will take place at the end or during the event, with the aim of engaging the public and enriching the academic discussion through an integrated approach.
The first improbable conversation with the theme "Can we use plants to improve our health?", on February 1, the month that marks World Cancer Day, will take place in the Greenhouse of the Botanical Garden of the University of Coimbra, at 12 noon, with the participation of two specialists in various themes associated with plants, Jorge Paiva and Célia Cabral, the biologist and doctor in the field of oncology, Edgar Pratas and the pharmacist Gustavo Costa, moderated by Sandra Amaral.
The next three sessions will take place on March 7 (World Women's Day) "Women in science: impact on research, management and dissemination of science" (moderated by Anabela Marisa Azul); April 4 (World Laboratory Animal Day): Scientific Research Without Animal Models: Myth or Reality? (moderated by Ana Duarte); May 2 (World Asthma Day): "Living with asthma without limitations" (moderated by Ermelindo Leal and Salomé Pires).
This initiative is coordinated by Ana Duarte, Anabela Marisa Azul, Ermelindo Leal, Ilda Ribeiro, Manuela Grazina, Raquel Alves, Salomé Pires, Sandra Amaral, from CNC-UC and iCBR (CIBB).
The event is open to the entire UC community and anyone interested.
