Robert Boyle Summer School gets under way in Waterford

Four days of talks, debate and entertainment are set to take place in Waterford city and Lismore for the annual Robert Boyle Summer School.

The organisers said this year's theme of 'Mind and Matter' will see "avid conversationalists and the culturally curious" gather for "intriguing discussion and debate".

The events kick off with a special opening this evening that will see South East Technological University (SETU) forensic psychologists Dr Lorraine Bowman Grieve and Dr Jennifer O'Mahoney explore the public's fascination with true crime.

The Robert Boyle Summer School is organised by SETU's STEM engagement centre, CALMAST, in partnership with Lismore Heritage Centre.

It is also supported by Waterford City and County Council, Lismore Castle Estates and the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as several local businesses.

Director of CALMAST Eoin Gill said the summer school is a "festival for adults" that focuses on "science but not for scientists".

He said: "We explore where ideas come from and how they impact and affect how we see the world today.

"The annual Robert Boyle Summer School brings together speakers across various fields on a particular theme relevant to society.

"This year's 'Mind and Matter' theme will resonate with our audience and we look forward to really good, mind opening conversation and debate."

The full programme of events can be found on the Robert Boyle Summer School website.