Whilst very much looking to the future it’s 10 years to the date and I couldn’t let this pass without a mention for Manchester and science. Manchester was the first UK city to be named European City of Science in 2016. From July 23–27, 2016 Manchester hosted the EuroScience Open Forum (ESOF).
There were ESOFs (EuroScience Open Forums) before that but Manchester, you were my first! I made an impromptu decision to attend as it was being held just ‘down the road’. I am so glad I went.
WHAT AN INSPIRATION IT WAS!
I was hooked from the start, and I went on to participate in press conference discussions and generally as a scientist and a science communicator in every ESOF thereafter (in person whenever possible or otherwise on-line). They were Europe’s largest interdisciplinary science meetings, covering science, society, business and careers.
So, A HUGE THANK YOU to ESOF, Manchester, the University of Manchester, and all those involved in the Manchester event. A special thanks to Andy Parkinson for making me feel so welcome in the Press Office.
Scientists, policymakers, and innovators were brought together to discuss latest developments and the future, with significant global discussions. On this occasion the recent UK referendum (June 23rd, 2016) to leave the EU and the potential impact of ‘Brexit’ felt raw and uncertain. Scientists were determined and passionate about continuing the ethos of collaborations and openness in science.
Like many others my curiosity about areas outside my specialities was sparked. A thirst for learning from other disciplines proved to be enlightening and I resolved to share the learning more widely in communications.
I was interested in supporting and inspiring students and young researchers in their career choices. I was already a Gold Mentor for undergraduates. An impromptu drop-in to a session on postgraduate careers was an eye opener when I discovered the many issues facing PhD students at that time. Before this I was viewing the PhD experience from my own very positive experience and probably through ‘rose-tinted glasses’. My focus on support changed to include and focus on the PhDs and early career researchers.
So, as the global spotlight points to Manchester in 2026 this is a brief reflection of a time ten years ago. There was so much about Manchester and science before then and so much since then.
The future bodes well!
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 23/07/2026
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Post script:
ESOF 2016 previous post in 2016 click here: ESOF comes to Manchester!
I have written numerous reports from ESOF 2018, 2020 and 2022
[Unfortunately beyond 2024 ESOF was unable to secure the necessary funding for future conferences]
A few photos from 2016:
A memento I recently discovered when tidying out some drawers:
