TRADITIONALLY scientists are stereotyped as studious and socially awkward characters like those in the Big Bang Theory.

Scientists have drawn up a reputation as eccentric and aloof rather than someone you would bump into in the pub.

Now researchers from Southampton University are aiming to turn the theory on its head by hosting a flagship comedy night.

A group of PHD students will take to the stage at the Avondale House pub today to launch the city's first Bright Club night.

The event follows in the footsteps of the inaugural Bright Club launched at University College London six years ago.

Coined 'the thinking person's variety night', researchers introduce themselves and their research in the form of stand-up comedy.

It has been designed to help people learn more about science in a fun and informal environment.

It also comes after The Pint of Science festival held in four Southampton pubs in May featuring a variety of talks, quizzes, stories, live experiments and even live music inspired by quantum physics.

The latest event at the Carlton Crescent-based pub will be compered by Southampton graduate turned comedian Joe Hart and features stand-up comedian Iszi Lawrence.

Bright Club committee member Nikhil Mistry, 24, pictured, a PHD student in acoustical engineering, said: "People make jokes about scientists and think they are reclusive but we are not just people in lab coats – we do have a sense of humour too.

"It's very light-hearted and aims to get people aware of the kind of things we do at the university."

He added: "Recently people like Professor Brian Cox have made science attractive and we want to latch onto that."

It's showing anyone can do science."

e and you don't have to be a researcher to do research."

He urged people from other research backgrounds including psychology, history and English to get involved in future events.

University associate dean for research Professor Rob Eason said: "Physics and fun.

"Two essential ingredients of life that begin with the letter ‘f’. If you don’t know the difference between a quark and a smirk then you need to get yourself to the next Bright Club event where all will be revealed.

"It is shining the light on scientific comedy.”.

Tickets cost £5 in advance, £6 on the door. Visit brightclubsoton.uk.