Welcome to The Impact Factor, the new public event series from the Faculty of Science, where you will learn how discoveries from the University of Sydney are shaping our future.

Hosted by academic and science communicator Professor Alice Motion, the series takes its name from an academic measure of influence but reframes the concept to explore what happens when science meets society.

Together, we’ll consider how scientists of the past have impacted experiments underway across our faculty, and how today’s research collaborations will influence all our tomorrows. Our researchers will share how scientific breakthroughs move beyond academia and create impact in the wider community.

We’ll also explore the literature, art, music and other cultural touch points that influence the work of scientists.

The inaugural event The Impact Factor: Matter of Origin, will tackle some of humanity's biggest questions: how did the Universe evolve and what was the spark that led to the origin of life here on Earth.

Blending science, culture and storytelling, The Impact Factor goes live this National Science Week on 20 August 2026 at the Seymour Centre. For further details click on the event below!