The University of Glasgow is to launch a new science festival.

With more than 80 events lined up between 12 March and 28 June, the festival has been established to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of Lord Kelvin, one of Scotland’s greatest scientists.

Professor John Coggins, University of Glasgow Vice Principal of Life Sciences, Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, said: "This is an exciting new science festival for the city, showcasing what the University of Glasgow is all about.

"For more than 500 years, Glasgow University has been at the forefront of scientific thought and this festival is a way of showing the country, and the world, that science is just as important now as it has ever been.

"Our scientists are continuing to make world-class breakthroughs and they want to share their new knowledge and their enthusiasm with as many people as possible.

"The Festival features academics from across the range of subjects at which we excel.  There will be contributions from graduate students and research fellows as well as from our Chancellor, Professor Sir Kenneth Calman, who will give a public lecture on science and ethics and Scotland’s Astronomer Royal, Professor John Brown who will be using magic to illustrate the wonders of the universe.

“Many of the activities are designed for schools and families and we hope they will inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers in Scotland.

More information on the Glasgow University Science Festival can be found at http://www.glasgowsciencefestival.org.uk