Our Mission

Canada’s oldest scientific society, Royal Canadian Institute for the advancement of science (RCI) is a registered charity that has been delivering programs and events to enhance the public’s understanding of science since 1849. Founded by a small group of civil engineers, architects and surveyors led by Sir Sandford Fleming, the RCI presents world-class scientists who volunteer their time to explain, in terms accessible to the public, the complex scientific work they are pursuing. The RCI’s annual series of free, public lectures attracts a diverse audience – high school students, the business community, professional scientists, the general public. From nanoscale bioengineering to new knowledge about the earliest moments of our universe, the RCI provides a unique glimpse into the frontiers of scientific research. Each lecture is followed by refreshments and informal discussions with the speaker. To reach a wider audience the lectures are webcast and appear on our website.