Explaining the principles of protein folding armed with nothing but a tea towel

Martin Smith volunteered as a Crick Science Busker for the first time, and tells us what he learned from the experience.

The Crick's Science Buskers are roving performers who use simple science demonstrations to engage individuals and small groups. Buskers work in twos and threes (you’re paired with someone you’ve most likely never met before) and are a well-established part of the Crick's public engagement programme, delivering interactive experiences at festivals and events.

Research Associate Martin Smith took part in the scheme for the first time this year, an experience he describes as "a bit like street theatre, but with science".

"A lot of what we do in academic research is funded by government grants, and I feel that public engagement, to give something back, is so important", he says.

"I learned a lot with hands-on training  and although they throw you in at the deep end, you get a lot of support. You choose  a ‘busk’ – which is a short, high tempo, interactive activity aimed at explaining a single scientific concept in a simple, accessible way. An example of a busk is explaining protein folding armed with just a tea towel."

He explains: "Protein folding is an important process that determines how protein acquires its 3-D structure. However, certain protein misfolds are involved in major illnesses, with dire consequences for a patient’s health. This can be demonstrated by trying to tie a knot in a tea towel while being unable to move the position that your hands are holding the tea towel. The solution involves how you initially hold the tea towel! However, with this busk, you can very quickly and easily convey the principles, and complexities, of protein folding, in a matter of minutes.

What I found really fascinating was that you can do the same busk three times with different groups and get completely different results, reactions and questions. The training involves helping you identify the times when people are most likely to be receptive to being approached – for example, when they’re a bit bored and waiting to go into an auditorium and have nothing much to do – and also to pick up on the signs when someone doesn’t want to engage.

For busking, it helps to have an extroverted personality. You need to be OK with perhaps looking a bit silly on occasion, or messing up a busk. But if you are looking to develop confidence in these kinds of situations then I would recommend it. The training is great, the Crick team is very supportive and you work in pairs so you are never just left alone to get on with it."

The next scheme runs in November and the Crick are looking for volunteers to take part then. Would Martin do it again? "In a heartbeat. My name is already on the list."