The search is on for a new generation of science communicators

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How do 3D glasses work? Why do men have nipples? Why is wearing red an advantage in sport? Is nuclear energy good or bad? How do cabbages keep warm in winter? A major competition to find people who can answer questions just like these to find the best new voice in science communication is now underway in Wales and the West Country.

FameLab logoRegional heats of FameLab the UK’s biggest competition to discover new talent to engage the public in Science and Engineering are being organised in Swansea, Cardiff and Bristol by Swansea University, Cardiff Science Festival and Cheltenham Festivals.  

Contestants will have just three minutes to pitch a concept in science, technology, engineering or maths to the panel of judges, who will assess the finalists’ presentations on three qualities: content, clarity and charisma.

The competition is open to anyone aged over 21 and is currently working in science, technology, engineering, or maths who can explain a science or engineering concept in an engaging way to non-scientists.

Contestants should register for the regional heats which will be:

FameLab Flyer

Bristol -  Watershed (Waterside 3), Wednesday 10 December 2014, 6.30 - 9pm

Cardiff –   Gwdihw Cafe Bar, Thursday 15 January 2015, 7.30pm

Swansea - Dylan Thomas Centre, Wednesday 28 January 2015, 7.30pm as part of the Swansea Science Cafe

The winners of these will then battle for a place in the Regional Finals at Techniquest’s After Hours event in Cardiff on Thursday 26th February 2015 and the winner of this round will get the chance to take part in a weekend Masterclass led by experts in media and communication skills, before vying for the title of FameLab UK champion at the National Final 22 April 2015 at the Bloomsbury Theatre in London.

The lucky FameLab UK winner will then have the chance to take home £1,750 to further their career. The winner will also go on to participate in the International Final at the Cheltenham Science Festival on 2-7 June 2015.

FameLab judge Dr Richard Johnston of Swansea University said: “It is vitally important for the next generation of scientists to not only address great scientific challenges, but to communicate what they do to the broader non-scientific community. We hope to attract scientists, engineers and mathematicians from all disciplines to compete, and hope that through FameLab in Wales and the West Country we will find the great scientific communicators of the future.’

Former FameLab entrant, Jamie Gallagher says “Famelab is much more than a competition and had lasts a lot longer than the three minute presentation. The competition is highly regarded. Many alumni have gone on to have fantastic careers and they all cherish the experience gained through Famelab. The people involved are fantastic, with many different backgrounds and experiences and all willing to share. It is a brilliant experience!”

Find more on @FameLabUK

FameLab in pictures

https://www.facebook.com/FameLabInternational

https://www.youtube.com/user/famelab