The lecture/discussions will open at 7 p.m. Sept. 28 with a presentation by Michael E. Wysession, Ph.D., associate professor of earth and planetary sciences in Arts & Sciences, who will speak on "The Sumatra Earthquake: Could It Happen Here?"

Each lecture will be on the last Wednesday of the month. The events will begin at 7 p.m. and conclude by 8:30 p.m.

The series is modeled after the popular Café Scientifique (www.cafescientifique.org), which was started in Europe, according to "Science on Tap" organizer Cynthia Wichelman, M.D., assistant professor of medicine and Mini-Medical School course director.

"This is a very exciting, novel program that reaches out to people in a relaxed, engaging atmosphere," Wichelman said.

"The speakers we have to start out are extremely interesting people who love reaching audiences. We're really looking forward to this endeavor."

The room holds approximately 100 people seated at tables.

There will be a microphone and podium, but no audio-visual component.

According to Wichelman, the format will comprise a 20-minute presentation, followed by a seven-minute break for the attendees to introduce themselves to each other at the tables, and then an hour of discussion.

The discussion will be led by questions from the audience, but directed by the speaker.

Following Wysession will be John McCarthy, Ph.D., professor of mathematics, who will discuss "Chaos," Oct. 26; and Barbara Schaal, Ph.D., the Spencer T. Olin Professor in biology, who will discuss: "Plants and People — Is the Beer You Are Drinking Safe?" Nov. 30.

For questions or comments, call 935-5285. For more information, go online to scienceontap.wustl.edu.