Deadline extended for NI science competition

THE deadline for the science communication competition, FameLab Northern Ireland, has been extended.

Aspiring science stars (working or studying in the fields of science, engineering or maths), now have until Thursday, December 31 to enter.

Those who make it through to the final at the Black Box, Belfast on February 24 2016, will win an exclusive Golden Ticket to over 120 events at 2016’s NI Science Festival, as well as  a  place on an all-expenses paid communication master class. The winner will go on to qualify for the UK national finals.

Organised by the British Council in conjunction with the Northern Ireland Science Festival and Cheltenham Festival, FameLab is a global communication competition which is held annually in over 25 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe and the United States. Globally, more than 4000 individuals studying or working in STEM have taken part and the result is a vibrant network of exciting scientists and engineers engaging international audiences, as well as engaging with each other.

Last year’s Northern Ireland winner, Emer Maguire, went on to win the UK final and was a finalist in the international competition – she’s now making big strides in science communication, and will be part of next year’s NI Science Festival programme.

Entering FameLab is simple. Aspiring science communicators can choose any STEM topic, which can be anything from the practical to the bizarre, as long as it excites and engages the general public. This topic, which should be no longer than 3 minutes, should then be recorded (on a phone will do) and uploaded to YouTube. Presentations will then be judged according to FameLab’s golden rule – the 3 Cs: Content, Clarity and Charisma.

If you feel you’re up to the challenge, submit your video to YouTube and email the link along with the application form tofamelab_ni@britishcouncil.org. The application, along with full terms and conditions, can be found at nireland.britishcouncil.org.

Entrants must be 21 years or over and working or studying in the fields of science, engineering or maths.

For more information on British Council Northern Ireland or FameLab, visit http://nireland.britishcouncil.org, follow on Twitter: @BCouncil_NI or Facebook: www.facebook.com/britishcouncilnorthernireland.