Café Scientifique of 2026

Our opening Café Scientifique of 2026 presents two research related topics!

Single mothers, stigma and online dating: An FRDA exploration of modern relationships in the digital world.

Sarah Ibordor, a Psychology PhD student at UON will examine her research around single mothers, stigma and online dating. Modern relationships are increasingly influenced by the digital world and its content, which is a rapidly evolving landscape. The rise, development and popularity of dating apps has created limitless options in regard to connecting with people, with the potential of developing a romantic connection. Within the demographic of single mothers who are seeking a romantic partner, the historical stigma, which remains present was explored within the research study through semi-structured interviews.

Eccentric exercise: Lengthening our perspective on its role in exercise medicine.

In his talk, Dr Brett Baxter, Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Biomechanics at UON will explain how lengthening muscle contractions, also known as eccentric contractions, occur during everyday tasks – we just may not be conscious that we are performing them and when we are performing them. They require one-third of the metabolic demand of shortening muscle contractions, which occur when we lift weights, yet they can substantially increase muscle strength, size, and flexibility, making them ideal to prescribe to exercise-intolerant populations. If prescribed to one side of the body, they can also improve strength and flexibility in the other side of the body, even if it was not trained, therefore making it a promising rehabilitation method for those who suffer from one-sided neurological impairments such as stroke survivors.

We look forward to welcoming you. Refreshments available to purchase on the evening.

To attend February’s Café Scientifique, register here.