Today saw the launch of the RCSU Science Challenge 2010 – featuring an addition to the options for entrants which should please the new-media types. (More details below.)
As I blogged last year, the RCSU Science Challenge is an annual competition which
aims to promote scientific communication and creative thinking amongst some of the country’s most talented young individuals; the same individuals that will eventually shape our future over the years to come.
The competition has been running since 2006, but entry is restricted to students at Imperial College. A parallel competition, with the same questions and entry criteria as the Imperial College competition, is open to secondary school students in years 11, 12 and 13. I would encourage those of you who know potential entrants to point them in the direction of the Challenge’s website, with the suggestion that they start to mull over the questions.
In common with previous competitions, this year’s panel of judges include representatives from research, industry and media, as well as an Imperial College native.
I have reproduced the questions below, but this year the most exciting development is the change in the criteria for entries. In addition to the essay format, which is still welcome, media entries will be accepted. The competition’s organizers encourage creativity in producing a short (up to six minutes) video. [1]
Mark Henderson, Science Editor of The Times
How will genetic advances change medicine and society by 2020?
Andrew Harrison, Fuel Innovations Manager, Shell
The Climate Change Act 2008 commits the UK to an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050- can technology alone deliver road transports’ share of this reduction?
Athene Donald, FRS, UNESCO 2009 Woman scientist of the year
Can renewable energy sources solve the UK’s energy problems?
Sir Keith O’Nions, Acting Rector of Imperial College
What are the prospects for finding life on other planets?
The prizes are significant, including £4000 cash and opportunities to gain insight into the circles in which the sponsors and the judges move. The Grand Final is a black-tie affair (in common with previous years, when venues have included the Science Museum and the Ritz). Tickets, I am assured, are selling fast.
1 Unfortunatly, the outcome of CISB09, at ten minutes, falls fowl foul of the entry criteria. Besides, team entries are not permitted. Back to the drawing board…
