March 9, 2011, Wednesday - A Sip of Science at Aster Cafe

Time: 5:30pm

Location: Aster Cafe, 125 SE Main Street

A Sip of Science: The Search for Diamonds in North America

A SIP OF SCIENCE bridges the gap between science and culture in a setting that bridges the gap between brain and belly.  Food, beer and learning are on the menu in a happy hour forum that offers the opportunity to talk with researchers about their current work, its implications and its fascinations.

At the March 9 event: Diamonds are said to be forever, but where do they originate? North America's geology has excellent potential for diamonds, but only recently have advances in science and technology made discovery possible. Join organizers for a happy hour discussion with Minnesota State Geologist Harvey Thorleifson on how Canada joined the ranks of world leaders in the production of high quality gem diamonds and how the methods that were key to diamond discoveries in Canada have been applied throughout Minnesota, with some preliminary success.

The talk takes place during happy hour at the Aster Café. No cover; food and drink will be available for purchase. Harvey Thorliefson is director of the Minnesota Geological Survey, state geologist of Minnesota, professor in the Department of Geology and Geophysics at the University of Minnesota and vice president of the Association of American State Geologists. Prior to joining the Minnesota Geological Survey team he was with the Geological Survey of Canada.

A SIP OF SCIENCE is a science happy hour sponsored by the National Center for Earth-surface Dynamics (NCED), usually held the second Wednesday of the month. It is a chance to hear about new and exciting research over beer, in a cool bar. Come talk with the experts about their efforts to address some of the Earth's most pressing problems. NCED's A SIP OF SCIENCE brings the wonder of science to happy hour.  More information.