24 September 2010, 16.00–22.00

The Natural History Museum is throwing open the laboratory door to the public and giving visitors special, one-night-only access to a hidden world in a special event, After Hours – Science Uncovered.

Behind the scenes of the Natural History Museum, more than 300 scientists use the world-class collections to research global problems such as disease, climate change and threats to biodiversity. After Hours – Science Uncovered will satisfy your curiosity as you get up close and personal with cutting-edge science and the people that make it happen. Explore fascinating topics ranging from the detective work of the forensics team to revolutionary new techniques for tracking meteorites.

Join a guided tour of the Dinosaurs gallery or hidden collections spaces, bring along mystery objects to be identified by experts, or simply unwind with a Friday night drink while mingling with Museum scientists in the iconic surroundings of the Grade I listed building.

Highlights include:

· Science Bar – a bar with a difference. Choose from a menu of hot topics such as the role of women in science or donating your body for research to discuss with Museum experts over a cocktail or two.

· Guided tours – soak up the atmosphere of the Museum at night with exclusive tours lead by top experts, including torch-lit tours of the Dinosaurs gallery. Spaces are limited, so come early to sign up and ensure a place on a tour.

· Hands-On Science – get up close and personal with Museum scientists as they showcase their research into everything from the toxicity of botox to species extinction. There will be the chance to handle real specimens and take part in demonstrations.

· Nature Live – get fully immersed in the natural world in the state-of-the-art Attenborough Studio. Interactive events using cutting-edge technologies will recreate a crime scene investigation or even link the audience to scientists working in the field.

· Mystery finds – from a shell on the local beach to a spider discovered in the bath, bring in unidentified natural history finds. It’s a unique chance to quiz Museum experts to find out more.

After Hours – Science Uncovered is part of European Researchers Nights and is the first time that London has taken part in the Europe-wide festival of science. Across Europe over 100 cities will hold similar events showing how exciting and vital research is to our lives.

Visitor information:

Dates and times: 24 September 2010
16.00–22.00

Admission: free

Visitor enquiries: Monday–Friday 020 7942 5000
Saturday–Sunday 020 7942 5011

Nearest tube: South Kensington

Website: www.nhm.ac.uk/visit-us/whats-on/coming-soon/index.html