Experts from across the nation will discuss ways that science, literature and film converge at West Virginia Universitys 26th annual Foreign Languages Colloquium that begins Thursday, Sept. 27, in the Mountainlair ballrooms.

This years theme Symbiosis/Synergism will look at how the fields of science, literature and film work together to complement and strengthen one another,”said Armand Singer, WVU Foreign Languages professor.”We often see the effects of these intersections, especially in the film genre lately, but dont always know the particulars of how these elements fit together. This conference, which the public is invited to, will look at those ways.”

Renowned science author Sy Montgomery will be the keynote speaker on Friday night.

Author of”Walking with the Great Apes,”Montgomery will discuss her book that details the significance of women scientistsincluding Dianne Fossey and Jane Goodallto the understanding of the natural world.

Other talks will include discussion on the role of science in the creation of such popular films as The Perfect Storm and the Matrix, cinematic representations of artificial intelligence, the ecological imperative of Outbreak and the film technology in Like Water for Chocolate.

The WVU Center for Womens Studies is co-sponsoring the three-day series.

“The Center for Women’s Studies frequently has supported the Colloquium on Film and Literature,”said Barbara Howe, Womens Studies director,”because we want to support opportunities for scholars and students to present feminist research, regardless of discipline.”

Women’s studies programs across the country, Dr. Howe said, also continue to be concerned about finding ways to promote the interests of women in science and technology.”It is important for us to co-sponsor this particular colloquium and Sy Montgomery’s presentation,”she said.

For more information, contact Singer at the 293-5121, or email Armand.Singer@mail.wvu.edu