From the politics of devolution to the intrigue of AI-generated pop star voices, Lancaster University’s Festival of Social Science 2025 line-up offers a mix of events for curious minds of all ages.

Part of a nationwide celebration funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, the festival shines a spotlight on research that helps us make sense of society, and our place within it.

Topics span politics, future healthcare, linguistics, artificial intelligence and our working lives, wellbeing, and even our emotional ties to the land, with engaging events designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and conversation.

Executive Dean of the University’s Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences Professor Edward Simpson, said: “Social science helps us understand the systems and relationships that shape our lives, from the jobs we do to the technologies we use.

“This year’s festival is a chance to explore how our working lives connect to identity, politics, health, and creativity. We’re excited to welcome the public to join us in these thought-provoking events.”

Lancaster University’s involvement in the Festival of Social Science is part of its wider commitment to sharing research that matters, connecting campus and community through learning, creativity, and collaboration.

The festival runs from Saturday 18 October to Saturday 8 November and features hundreds of free events across the UK.

The line-up at Lancaster University

Bot or Not – Can You Tell Your Billie Eilish from Your Billie AI-lish?

Think you can tell the difference between a human singer and AI-generated vocals? Put your ears to the test in this 5-minute interactive quiz led by Lancaster researchers.

When: Online quiz, access anytime!

Who: Open to all

Take the quiz: Take the quiz on the Lancaster University website.

From Skin to Heart to Mind: Different Bodies, Shared Humanity

Celebrate what makes us human at this fun, hands-on event led by Lancaster University Medical School. Explore how your heart, brain, and identity connect through creative activities for all ages.

When: Drop-in anytime 10am-2pm, Saturday 25 October

Where: Lancaster Central Library

Who: Family-friendly

Find out more: Find out more on the Festival of Science website.

Landscape: Bringing the Outside In and the Inside Out

Lancaster Arts presents a creative workshop and panel discussion exploring our relationship with land, identity, and the environments we live and work in. Featuring insights from a year-long project with artists, academics and local communities and the chance to share your own thoughts on a landscape that means something to you. In partnership with the Academy of Social Sciences.

When: 3-5.30pm, Saturday 1 November

Where: The Strathmore Hotel, Morecambe, Marine Road

Who: Suitable for 16+

How to book: Book online via the Lancaster Arts website.

Imagining the Hospital in 2125: Inclusive Healthcare Futures

What will hospitals look like in 100 years? Join us to explore inclusive, forward-thinking healthcare design through art, discussion, and playful design.

When: Drop-in anytime 9.30-11.30am, Tuesday 4 November

Where: Lancaster Central Library

Who: Open to all

Find out more: Find out more on the Festival of Science website.

AI and Our Working Lives – A Social Sciences Panel Debate

Curious about how AI is changing the way we work, think, and talk about jobs? Lancaster University’s social science researchers host a lively panel packed with big ideas, bold questions, and plenty of discussion. In partnership with the Academy of Social Sciences.

When: 6-8pm, Tuesday 4 November

Where: St Thomas Centre, Marton St, Lancaster, LA1 1XX

Who: Suitable for 16+

How to book: Book online via the tryingbooking website.

Find out more

Explore the full programme of events in Lancaster and across the UK on the Festival of Social Science website.

You can also register to receive Lancaster University’s Connect Newsletter for monthly updates on public events, research opportunities, and campus activities.