Explore the fascinating world of psychoactive plants and fungi with Dr Liam Engel
Presented as part of National Science Week, ethnobotanist, chemist and author Dr Liam Engel takes you on a journey into the world of psychoactive plant chemicals.
Much of what we think we know about psychoactive plants comes from decades-old studies, anecdote and tradition. Drawing on research spanning cacti, wattles, fungi, grasses and drug checking, Liam takes audiences beyond the laboratory bench to reveal why plants are among the most chemically complex organisms we study. His talk explores how modern analytical chemistry is transforming our understanding of psychoactive plants, and why many of their secrets remain hidden.
Dr Liam Engel
Dr Liam Engel is an ethnobotanist, natural products chemist and science communicator specialising in psychoactive plants. Liam undertakes analytical chemistry with NICM Health Research Institute and Pill Testing Australia, is founder of The Mescaline Garden educational nursery and author of Psychoactive Plants & Fungi.
Tickets
$18 General
$12 Concession
$40 Family (2x adults 2x youth)
FREE Members
Dates & Times
22 August 2026
1pm
Location
Bundanon Art Museum
170 Riversdale Road
Illaroo NSW 2540
This Inspiring Australia initiative is supported by the Australian Government as part of National Science Week.
