Please note this event will be a 45 minute lecture and a conversation/ networking and will be in a casual setting.

The ANU Society for Arts and Social Sciences is excited to announce the launch of our new series: Lectures in the Pub a series designed to foster meaningful dialogue between academics and the broader university community in a relaxed and accessible setting.

This series invites students and staff alike to engage directly with leading thinkers from across the university, offering a rare opportunity to hear about their research, perspectives, and passions in a setting that encourages open discussion and informal exchange.

Brian Schmidt AC FAA FRS FTSE is Distinguished Professor of Astronomy at the Australian National University. For his work on the accelerating universe, Brian Schmidt was awarded the 2011 Nobel Prize in Physics, jointly with Adam Riess and Saul Perlmutter. Schmidt has worked across many areas of Astronomy including supernovae, gamma ray Bursts, gravitational wave transients, exo-planets, and metal poor stars. Receiving his PhD from Harvard University in 1993, Schmidt joined the staff of the Australian National University in 1995. He served as the 12th Vice Chancellor and President of the Australia National University from 2016-2023. Professor Schmidt will share his insights on the future of higher education, research and the university.

This event is explicitly not about ANU, but if you're curious about the global challenges facing universities today from AI to MAGA, or simply keen to hear from one of Australia's most influential academics, this event promises to be both thought-provoking and enjoyable.

We warmly welcome all students and staff to join us at the pub for an evening of conversation, connection, and community.