The day started with staff and students challenged to explain their research using the 1000 most common words. Research groups put their heads together to come up with elevator pitches without the use of words like 'quantum' or 'photon', which proved a challenge, but one they cleverly overcame by using phrases such as 'weird science' and 'light dot'!

The afternoon activities started with a group 'chair pilates' session to blow away the cobwebs and offer some easy exercises for desk-based work. This was followed by a game of TasQmaster, where team members unveiled their creativity and teamwork to complete challenges such as 'make the best trailer for QET Labs: The Movie' and 'draw the second-longest snake on loo roll'. A secret task given to a select few staff and students before the away day saw the creation of some brilliant 'surprising self portraits', helped along by the use of AI, coding, and even a pet lizard!

The day ended with a trip to the local pub, providing an opportunity for the group to enjoy the unusual (but very welcome) March sunshine. Conversations flowed, and the relaxed atmosphere fostered a safe environment for sharing ideas for scientific collaboration and external activities.

Feedback from the group was that the away day was enjoyed by all, it proved a successful event for meeting new group members and making strong connections across all of our research areas, whilst offering a fun and relaxing day away from the lab.