Leading Edge

Leading Edge Discussion Group

Hosted by Neill Allan



As the name suggests this Group gives an opportunity to hear from external speakers about a broad range of topics, where eminent academics and researchers share with us their own particular current interests and findings.

The content of these talks can sometimes be a bit more technical and, although speakers are briefed on the varying levels of audience knowledge; are intended to help keep our minds agile and active and absorbing new information, to advance our knowledge and appreciation. The speakers are always happy to take questions from the audience and give a more comprehensive explanation or expansion, and the talks are widely praised.

Recordings of the meetings are normally made, but because the content can be sensitive, only available for subscribers and their families to view.

You may well also be interested in some of the discussions being held in the Science and Technology, Computer, Climate Crisis, Geology and other Interest Groups who are also offering opportunities for learning and discussion, free of charge.

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Previous meetings

Antimatter Research, Accelerator Systems, and Practical Applications

Speaker: Prof. Carsten Welsch Head of Accelerator Science, Liverpool University From science fiction to serious science: antimatter research is now producing important advances in accelerator technology, imaging and precision instrumentation.[...]

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27 July 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Discovering how our Genes shape Learning and Cognition

Speaker: Prof. Robert Plomin Professor of Behavioural Genetics Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College How much of intelligence and learning ability is[...]

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29 June 2026 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

From Concept to Reality: Space‑Based Solar Power Today

Speaker: Martin Soltau Co‑CEO, Space Solar Space‑based solar power (SBSP) is no longer a distant dream—it’s becoming a credible pillar of future clean‑energy systems. By harvesting sunlight in orbit, where[...]

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25 May 2026 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Space Debris and new approaches to rectification

Speaker: Ray Fielding Head of Sustainability and ISAM UK Space Agency Earth’s orbits are becoming the world’s most valuable—and most vulnerable—commons. Every bolt, paint fleck, and abandoned satellite hurtling around[...]

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29 April 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

The Jimi Hendrix Experience – a study of musical expression

Speaker: Professor Milton Mermikides University of Surrey Why does some music hit us straight in the gut? Why can a single guitar phrase feel joyful, unsettling, or transcendent? In this[...]

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31 March 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
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