Lecture Series

Thank You

Thank you to all who made the 2026 Lecture Series a great success. From the most visually striking keynote talk that we've ever hosted, by the acclaimed biologist-turned-photographer Anand Varma, to an in-depth panel discussion on microplastics, we were thrilled to share expert perspectives from the world of science with the community here in Salt Lake City. As always, thank you to our generous sponsors who help make all of this possible. 

Stay tuned for more details on the 2027 Lecture Series, and subscribe to our emails to get first notice. 

About the 2026 Lecture Series

Science has long studied invisible forces that shape our lives. The curiosity of Dutch microbiologist Antonie van Leeuwenhoek (1632–1723) led him to make the first scientific observations of microscopic life. For centuries since, that same interest in the unseen was shared by countless scientists who defined worlds within our world and shaped our understanding of the future. 

The 2026 Lecture Series, The Science of Small Things, investigated the outsized influence of small wonders in our world today. From the complexity of insects to the hidden behavior of microbes to unseen ecosystems all around us, the lineup of renowned speakers shed light on the immense significance of small-scale science.  

The 2026 Lecture Series theme was inspired by the Museum’s special exhibition, Bug World, a three-dimensional experience that presents the world of insects on a scale never seen before.

2026 Lecture Series Sponsors

Founding Underwriter

R. Harold Burton Foundation

Underwriter

Cultural Vision 30 Year Endowment Fund

Gold Sponsors

Karen & Ken Buchi 

Curt and Mary Crowther 

M Lazy M Foundation 

Rio Tinto Kennecott

Silver Sponsors

The DiFiore Family Foundation

Diana George

MSL Foundation

Paula Swaner Sargetakis and Joe Sargetakis | Frog Bench Farms

Community Partners

The County Library | Viridian Event Center

Kingsbury Hall

Pictureline

Institutional Support

Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts, and Parks