Deadline: Not specified
Applications are now open for the FameLab is an annual science communication competition that runs in many countries worldwide. FameLab is a global competition to find and support the world’s most talented new science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) communicators.
Wherever you are in the world, the competition remains the same. You have just three minutes to present a concept from your field of study to a panel of judges. Make it funny, make it enlightening, and make it jaw-dropping. The judges are looking for somebody who can shine in content, clarity and charisma – all within the three minute allowance.
FameLab is a communications competition designed to engage and entertain by breaking down science, technology and engineering concepts into three minute presentations. FameLab was set up in 2005 by Cheltenham Festivals in partnership with NESTA to find and nurture scientists and engineers with a flair for communicating with public audiences.
They want to find the science communication stars of tomorrow, who can really show off their area of expertise in a fascinating and engaging way. The national champion from each participating country will receive an invitation to the Cheltenham Science Festival in the UK. There they will join an exclusive two-day masterclass led by expert UK trainers. They also get the chance to compete for the title of FameLab International Champion 2018.
Eligibility
FameLab is trying to find people who want to talk about their science, not the people who have already shifted into science communication or promotion as a full-time career.
- You must be 21 years old or older
- You must be working in or studying in science, technology, engineering, medicine or maths. Other eligibility criteria apply.
They welcome:
- Lecturers in science, mathematics or engineering subjects, including specialist science teachers with a science degree.
- Researchers who use existing research or meta-studies – they don’t have to be getting their hands dirty
- People who work on applying science, technology or mathematics – for example, patent clerks, statisticians, computer technicians, consultants to industry…
- Postgraduate students of science, mathematics or engineering (over 21)
- People who apply science, mathematics or engineering in the armed forces or government bodies
- People who apply science, engineering or mathematics in industry or business
Sorry they can’t accept people who are:
- Press or PR officers, even for science-related organisations
- Artists who work on science-related themes
- Performers whose shows are about science or engineering
- Science centre staff who work exclusively or mainly with the public
- Journalists and broadcasters (as their main or only job)
- Non-specialist school teachers
Rules
- You have only three minutes for your talk.
- Your talk must be about a science, technology, engineering, medicine or maths-based topic.
- You may not use PowerPoint or other similar presentation software.
- Props are limited to what you can carry on stage (and there is no time for set up).
- Your talk is a solo performance. You are not permitted to carry other people on to the stage to assist you in your talk.
- If you make it through your local heats to a regional final in your country you will need a second presentation (which can be on the same topic, but must be demonstrably different in content).
Application
- UK: Find out more and how to enter FameLab 2018 on the Cheltenham Science Festival website . Regional heats in the UK will take place between December 2017 and March 2018. The UK final will take place in London.
- Countries around the word (apart from the UK): Please check the website of your local British Council office to find out if your country takes part in FameLab 2018. A list of participating countries will be published on this website later this year.
For more information, visit FameLab 2018.
