On Sunday, 27 April 2025, the University of Glasgow’s Doctoral Researcher Nitin Kumar (DC11) contributed to Smelly Sunday, a public engagement event held at Edward House on Sauchiehall Street as part of the “Not to Be Sniffed At” exhibition. Supported by the UKRI Guarantee Fund and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the event invited visitors to explore the intersection of scent, memory, and science through interactive activities designed by researchers. Kumar demonstrated the chemistry of olfactory perception, captivating a diverse audience eager to explore how smells shape our understanding of culture and the environment.
“This isn’t just about guessing aromas,” Kumar explained as attendees sniffed mystery vials. “It’s about understanding how molecules interact with our senses and how that science powers everything from perfumes to pollution sensors.” The event was a collaboration between perfumers, historians, and scientists, reimagining Glasgow’s Sauchiehall Street through its olfactory past and present, sparking lively discussions about the role of scent in urban life.
For Nitin, the day was a testament to the power of public engagement. “People lit up when they realized their noses are chemical detectors,” he remarked. “One minute they’re laughing over mistaking lavender for rosemary, the next they’re asking how this applies to environmental monitoring. That’s the magic of science communication.”
By turning a playful activity into a gateway for deeper dialogue, Nitin underscored how cutting-edge research thrives when it connects with community curiosity. “Events like this remind us that science isn’t just done in labs,” said one attendee. “It’s something we all experience, every day.”
We’re proud to see Nitin contributing to a culture of science that informs, inspires, and includes. Congratulations on your role in making Smelly Sunday a truly memorable event!