Kimball Smith Series

The Kimball Smith Series tackles issues at the intersection of science, technology, ethics, and global affairs—ranging from nuclear weapons risks to artificial intelligence policy. 

Kimball Smith events promote cross-disciplinary conversations and connections. Our events typically feature:

  • A speaker panel, with experts in scientific and political aspects of the event topic;
  • Multidisciplinary, small-group discussions among attendees.

The Series honors Alice Kimball Smith, PhD ‘36, a historian who analyzed scientists’ efforts to shape nuclear politics early in the atomic age.

Events

Arms Races in Outer Space: Physics and Politics

April 12, 2023
Register here: Join us on April 12th from 7-8:30pm in Room 101, Rosenfeld Hall for a moderated panel followed by small group discussions regarding outer space and global...
A stylized illustration of a globe surrounded by PCB traces

International Security in Orbit and Beyond | Yale Schmidt Program (Co-Sponsored Event)

March 30, 2023
Register here: Join us from 5-6pm on March 30th in Henry R. Luce Hall, Room 101 for a panel on law, technology, and policy challenges in outer space. This panel will feature...
The words "Material Energy Nexus: Critical Materials for a Sustainable and Just Energy Transition" positioned next to a wind turbine

Lunch and Discussion: Debrief on the Material Energy Nexus

February 24, 2023
Register here: Join the Kimball Smith Series and the Center for Industrial Ecology for lunch and small-group discussions on critical materials required for the energy...

Material Energy Nexus | Yale School of the Environment (Co-Sponsored Event)

February 22, 2023
Join us from 5 - 8pm at Kroon Hall on February 22nd for an interdisciplinary event focused on the critical materials required for the energy transition. There will be expert...

Science, Tech & World Affairs: A Book Talk and Q&A with Charles Weiss

January 26, 2023
The journal Science & Diplomacy has published an article by Charles Weiss, based on his remarks for the Kimball Smith Series. You may find the article here: “Playing with...

Climate Change Solutions: Technology & Transnational Negotiations

December 5, 2022
Register here: Join us on December 5 from 7-8:30pm in the GM Room, Horchow Hall for a moderated panel followed by small group discussions on climate change solutions. The...

Nuclear Weapons Today: Physics and Politics

April 22, 2022
Register here: Join us on April 22nd from 10:30am-12pm in ESC 110 (21 Sachem St.) for a moderated panel followed by small group discussions on nuclear weapons. The panel will...
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