Outcomes and impacts
Our evaluation data demonstrates that visitors increased their understanding and awareness of antibiotics and antmicrobial resistance as a result of the exhibition.
The survey data on public attitudes towards antibiotic use will feed into a future Oxford Martin School policy paper, while the exhibition will leave a physical legacy in the form of a permanent display in the museum. Our work resulted in a re-cataloguing of 71 penicillin-related objects in the collection, which will be easier to access for researchers.
The participating researchers also gained valuable public engagement with research skills, which are essential for raising awareness about a complex biological-social problem.
Project Team
Dr Claas Kirchelle, Oxford Martin School, Wellcome Unit for the History of Medicine, Wolfson College & Dr Andreas Kappes, Oxford Martin School, Department of Experimental Psychology.
Dr Silke Ackermann, Marie-Louise Kerr, Dr Sophie Waring and Dr Stephen Johnston, History of Science Museum
"The whole day was a fascinating and multi-faceted exploration of the history of penicillin, and students greatly enjoyed the range of activities, artefacts and exhibitions they were able to participate in." Teacher, Cheney School
Funded by: The EPA Cephalosporin Fund