American Chemical Society webinar focuses on providing scientific advice to the film industry

WASHINGTON, Sept. 2, 2010 — News media and others interested in the chemical sciences are invited to join the next in a series of American Chemical Society (ACS) Webinars™, focusing on opportunities for scientists to consult for the film industry

Scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 9, from 2 – 3 p.m. EDT, the free ACS Webinar™ will feature Barry J. Byrne, M.D., Ph.D., of the University of Florida, speaking on How Scientific Skills are Used in Advising the Movie Industry – Facts and Fiction. He provided scientific expertise in the making of the movie Extraordinary Measures, released in January 2010. The film depicts the true story of a father's struggle to save his two children from Pompe disease, a rare genetic disorder that damages the heart and muscles and is often fatal. Byrne is an international authority on the disorder.

ACS Webinars™ connect you with subject experts and global thought leaders in chemical sciences, management and business to address current topics of interest to scientific and engineering professionals. Each webinar includes a short presentation followed by a Q & A session.

News media and scientists can tune into the conference without charge, but must register in advance.

Byrne's topic will include:

• How media can be used to enhance the public perception of scientific discovery
• How the movies have helped the public understanding of how drugs are developed for rare diseases
• Creating the picture –– the process of scientific discovery and clinical research
• The importance of getting community support for scientific research
• Career opportunities for scientific professionals in the film industry