It’s Nerd Nite Melbourne's big 60th show, and do we have a special treat (or treats) for you?! From de-extinction of the Tassie Tiger, to the curator of our very own Science Gallery Melbourne, to a biracial, bisexual, bimbo, biologist making waves in science communication - this show is bound to be a must for all nerdy Melbournites. Be there or Be Square. Andrew Pask Bring back the dead to protect our future Description: Imagine a world where the extinct species of yesterday walk the earth once more. One of the most ambitious projects in de-extinction science is the revival of the thylacine, or Tasmanian tiger, a unique marsupial predator wiped out in the early 20th century. Once the apex predator of Tasmania’s forests, the thylacine left behind ecological roles that remain unfilled to this day. In this talk, I'll explore the techniques being developed to bring back this species, including advanced genetic engineering, cloning, and dive into the ethical, ecological, and logistical challenges of reviving a creature that last roamed the Earth almost a century ago. How close are we to seeing the thylacine in the forests once again? Join me to find out! Bio: I emigrated to Australia when I was 10 years old - when I arrived I immediately became fascinated with the amazing marsupials all around me! I studied biology at uni and then started researching genetics and marsupial genomes (DNA). In the early 2000’s I discovered DNA in thylacine (Tasmanian tiger) sample at the museum. I took a gene from this DNA and made it function again in a mouse. From that moment on, I was passionate about trying to bring this animal back and the importance of deextinction science for conservation in our rapidly changing world. X (formlery Twitter): @AJ_PASK Naomi Koh Belic 許佳丽 Hot Girls have IBS Description: Are you a hottie with tummy issues? You might be in the 10% of Australians with irritable bowel syndrome. I’m calling all constipated cuties to join me, your resident bimbo biologist, for a scientific and philosofaecal exploration of my own sloppy plops. Bio: Dr Naomi Koh Belic 許佳丽 (she/her) is a biracial, bisexual, bimbo biologist. She is a storyteller, and science is the language she speaks. Naomi is a second-generation Australian and a first-generation university graduate with a PhD in stem cell biology. ALL SOCIALS: @naomikohbelic Tilly Boleyn Come with me to uncomfortable places! Description Tilly is absolutely delighted by blurring the boundaries between science, art, design, technology, maths, engineering, large-scale-batteries-powered-by-human-urine and doing things she's told aren't allowed. She’s here to convince you that the only way forward is through unconventional experimental collaborations and interdisciplinary connections. Doing things differently to the norm is unsettling though…. Will you accept the challenge to step into uncomfortable spaces? Bio: Tilly Boleyn is the Head of Curatorial at Science Gallery Melbourne. Basically, she’s a massive nerd, curious about the world and everything in it. Her background is in museums, galleries, education, festivals, broadcasting and research. Instagram: @tillyboleyn VENUE INFO Howler Bar & Grill The kitchen will be serving a full menu from 5pm till late including vegan and vegetarian options. You can view the delicious offerings available by clicking here. Booking are not essential but recommended here. Accessibility Howler is Accessible. Both Garden and Theatre are 100% accessible for patrons including a central restroom and easy curbside access for car services. This venue accepts companion cards. Simply purchase your ticket and contact Moshtix to arrange access for your Companion. Parking A park and ride, council operated carpark is located immediately outside of Howler's doors. Public Transport Howler is conveniently located just a two minute walk from both the Route 19 Coburg tram (stop 21), and Jewel train station on the Upfield line. Bicycle We adjoin the Upfield Bike Path and have many designated bike parks on site.