Sunday with a Scientist to focus on effects of climate on plants

The University of Nebraska State Museum’s Sunday with a Scientist program for children and families will investigate “Why Plants Don’t Wear Sweaters.”

Hands-on activities will focus on the effects of cold and freezing temperatures on plants. The program will be from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. May 15 at Morrill Hall, south of 14th and Vine streets.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Rebecca Roston, assistant professor of biochemistry; James Schnable, assistant professor of agronomy and horticulture; and Joshua Herr, assistant professor of plant pathology; will lead visitors in activities. The scientists will display a variety of plants, including Venus flytraps.

Children and families can make their own seed art while learning about plant phenotypes — physical characteristics of an organism from both genetics and environment. Other activities will include a competition testing visitors’ skills using science tools, scientific experiments and an opportunity to identify differences and similarities in seeds and mature plants.

Sunday with a Scientist is a series of presentations that highlight the work of scientists, while educating children and families on a variety of topics related to science and natural history. Presenters share scientific information in a fun, informal way through demonstrations, activities or by conducting science on site. Sunday with a Scientist typically takes place from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month.

For more information on the program, including upcoming topics, click here.

Established in 1871, the University of Nebraska State Museum is the state’s premier museum of natural history. The museum is focused on promoting discovery in natural science; fostering scientific understanding and interpretation of the Earth’s past, present and future; and enhancing stewardship of the natural and cultural heritage of Nebraska through world-class exhibits, collections and special events.