Some may consider glassblowing a type of art form, but it’s an important aspect of science as well. Without it, medical scientists wouldn’t have the tools to create new medicines or discover cures.

Gary Coyne, a scientific research glass blower, will speak on campus today about vacuum glassblowing. Coyne designs scientific glasswear, or apparati, for California State University in Los Angeles. As national president of the American Scientific Glassblowers Society, he has written a book on glassblowing techniques.

Daniel Edwards, a scientific research glassblower at NIU, designs apparati for the biology, geology and electrical engineering departments.

“We work much like a machinist,” Edwards said. “We make blueprints and build according to those specifications. We also have to know how to cut, grind and polish.” Edwards added that he often works with Pyrex and quartz glass.

Such a career involves patience and considerable skill.

“You’re working with a medium at work that’s always moving,” Edwards said.

Edwards and Coyne also improve upon the shape and function of various apparatus.

“We have to rebuild and design it to work,” Edwards said.

This is a task that requires precision and skills that take years to develop. Universities won’t hire glassblowers without a considerable amount of experience.

“You can’t learn this business in five years,” Edwards said. “There’s too much to learn.”

Gary Coyne will talk about the various techniques he has learned in his 25 years of experience. His lecture begins at 4 p.m. in Faraday West, Room 201.