I am very pleased to announce that the University of Aberdeen will be hosting a series of high profile lectures on energy and climate change this Spring starting on 5th February. The series is spearheaded by Professor Benjamin Kneller, an old friend of mine, and was born out of many late night discussions we had on these vital and controversial issues. My own experience tells me that when there is serious disagreement on scientific issues that reality often falls somewhere between the extremes of view point that may be expressed. It is only possible to advance our common knowledge through civil discourse between the opposing parties. It is my hope, therefore, that this series of lectures will amass expert opinion from all sides of the energy and climate debates. The series starts with four lectures stating different positions on Energy and Climate and a panel debate on alternative energy sources.

5 February 2009 Global Warming: The View of the IPCC: Professor Pete Smith, University of Aberdeen
18 February 2009 Natural Drivers of Climate Cycles: Dr Jim Buckee, former CEO of Talisman Energy
5 March 2009 Global Energy Resources – The Peak Oil View: Professor Kjell Aleklett, University of Uppsala
12 March 2009 Alternative Energy Panel Discussion
19 March 2009 The Future of Global Oil Supply - Why So Much Uncertainty? Dr Peter Jackson, Senior Director for Oil Industry Activity at Cambridge Energy Research Associates

Full program, further information and web links below the fold.