The Irish Role in the Discovery of the Secret of Life

This event has ended

Online, Friday 30th October

As a geneticist, our speaker Mark Lawler has always been fascinated about the research that uncovered the “Secret of Life” as Francis Crick described the discovery of the structure of DNA in, of all places, the Eagle Pub in Cambridge. But Mark’s hero in this seminal discovery was not the cerebral Francis Crick, nor his more brash American colleague James Watson.

In his public lecture as part of the celebrations of the 80th Anniversary of the Dublin Institute of Advanced Studies, Mark will focus on the oft forgotten contribution of Rosalind Franklin, the Dark Lady of DNA, who did so much but received so little. But the more he delved into this fascinating and sometimes sad story, the more Mark realised that there was a significant Irish connection, one that involved a number of what might seem at first unlikely players, including Eamon De Valera and Archbishop John Charles McQuaid. Mark will bring you back to a time when Ireland, and, in particular, Dublin, was at the heart of the scientific universe and share with you a story that is exciting, puzzling, challenging, but never dull.


Date:
Friday 30th October
Time:
6.00pm
Price:
Free

You might also like...

What's on

Thursday Lates at National Gallery of Ireland

National Gallery of Ireland

Join us for a special French-themed evening as our Thursday Lates events make a summer return. On Thursday 3 July, we'll be celebrating all things French in our collection with an evening of art, music, theatre and design. Highlights on the evening include: Theatre performance - Olwen Fouéré will present ‘Duet’ in our Shaw Room. Pop-up Concert - Dewi Jones performs Appel Interstellaire by Olivier Messiaen. Tours - free guided tours exploring a selection of works by French artists in the collection, and a special tour of food in French art led by Blanca Valencia and Santi

What's on

‘Summer in Dublin’

Various Locations

Dublin City Council, in collaboration with The Temple Bar Company and DublinTown.ie proudly presents ‘Summer in Dublin’ a brand new series of vibrant city centre activations running across five weekends this July and August. Starting Thursday 3rd July ‘Summer in Dublin’ will bring Parliament Street and the surrounding area to life with live entertainment, food and craft markets, immersive pop-ups, and a host of free, family-friendly activities – all set in a safe, traffic-free environment in the heart of the city. Blossoms & Bee's takes place this Weekend Saturday 5th July

What's on

Style in the City – Summer 2025

Grafton Street/Henry Street

Style in the City will be 8 Saturdays of fashion, flair, and fun that will light up both sides of the Liffey! Whether you’re a fashion fanatic, a curious shopper, or just love a good time in town, this is the ultimate style destination for you. Each week, we bring something fresh, fabulous, and totally free to the heart of Dublin. What to Expect Live Fashion Shows: From local boutiques to beloved high-street stores and emerging Irish designers, watch the latest trends come alive—right on the street! Interactive Hair & Beauty Demos: Thinking of a new look? Stop by for li