See this year's finalists in action
Each of this year's finalists has had a showreel made for them. These include footage from their regional heats and the grand final, as well as clips filmed at the residential masterclass in May. Our fabulous finalists can now use these showreels to show off their skills as great science communicators, and you can view them all here
One of the aims of NESTA FameLab is to bring scientists and engineers into the public eye in any way we can. So, if you're a science centre looking for a speaker, a local radio show looking for some fresh material, a school looking for an inspirational role model, or have any other ideas for how to exploit the FameLab pool of genius, please email famelab@cheltenhamfestivals.com.
Have you ever wondered what it's like to be involved in a TV program? Lindsay Stenhouse, 2006 runner-up, recently appeared on Landward (Friday night, BBC 2 Scotland, 7pm). Here is her own account of the experience.
After FameLab 2006, I was invited to give a couple of guest lectures and performances at various events and festivals and loved every minute of it. I wasn't hopeful that these opportunities would last long, what with the 2007 famelabbers coming up behind us (!) so I made one last ditch effort to make the best of the whole experience. I had moved from Edinburgh to Aberdeenshire and was finishing up my PhD. I had no specific job leads but I knew that one of my fave programmes was filmed in Aberdeen- Landward, so I thought I'd get in touch. After all, what did I have to lose? I wrote a letter to the Series Producer (Simon Cousins) with my CV and my FameLab showreel asking if there was a potential role for me in the team- I was hoping maybe to get a shot at researching for the programme or some work experience, so imagine my surprise when I got a reply inviting me to have a chat about some casual 'on-screen work'! So, I went to BBC Aberdeen (Beechgrove!) and I met Simon for my 'informal chat'. He was just so nice and very enthusiastic about my showreel- he said that they get sent hundreds of showreels but were very impressed with mine (to explain: as part of the FameLab masterclass for finalists, we had a showreel made especially for us that was v professional- thank you FameLab!). Anyhoo, he wanted to give me a trial run at presenting with a ready-prepared stream about non-native species which threaten Scotland's indigenous flora & fauna called 'Alien Invaders'. We also had a chat about some ideas I had for the series which he seemed to like and asked me to write some proposals. I left feeling dizzy with excitement and I couldn't quite believe that I was going to be involved in working on a programme I loved so much, let alone be a presenter on it!
After a couple of weeks, I got a call from my stream Director, Fiona, who was really supportive and sent me lots of information about how to be authorative and engaging etc, which was a great refresher course from things I had learned at the masterclass weekend. She sent me the 'treatments' for each episode and just before we were due to start filming, they managed to squeeze in a training day for me with a cameraman. I was so nervous and I didn't really know exactly what to expect but Fiona had sent me some scripts that we would use for training, so I busied myself with memorising those and practising them aloud. That is my major tip for rehearsing any sort of performance by the way- talk to yourself, the wall, your pets...it really helps! We drove to a Country Park where I could find some people to interview (this is probably the scariest part of the job!). We messed around doing 'pieces to camera' in various positions (sitting, standing, walking and talking) and I was also asked to do the same piece to camera over and over starting with a fairly normal style but making it more and more theatrical every time until it felt ridiculous! The purpose of this was to show me that when you feel you are really 'hamming it up' too much, actually the audience doesn't see it that way. I was given the tapes from the training day for that purpose and to try and spot mannerisms that were good and bad. I learned so much from that day, not only about presenting to camera, but also interview techniques and the production/ editing process, continuity etc. There is so much that we take for granted as viewers- so much effort goes into making it all look effortless! But most of all, I had a great time- it was so much fun and Fiona and Ken (the cameraman) were really encouraging and supportive.
The following week, I started filming for real and whilst I was still a little nervous, I was a lot more confident having been through the training. It was really interesting meeting my interviewee and learning about his work- I remember thinking that this must be the best job in the world! If you make a mistake, you can run it again, which you can't do when you're on stage! It gave me a great buzz without the feeling of imminent doom which is always the way I feel before I stand up and speak to an audience! Over the next few weeks, we filmed the rest of the stream all over Scotland and I met many more fascinating people, learning all the while and enjoying some of our country's most beautiful scenery.
The filming is over now and my stream is currently being broadcast every week for 6 week (Friday night, BBC 2 Scotland, 7pm). When the first episode was shown, I can't tell you how horrible I felt in the moments leading up to it. I hid behind a cushion for most of it and squealed with horror at some of the cringe-worthy things I've said or weird facial expressions I've made... but all in all, it was worth it. I had the best time and hope to do more in the future.
And finally, a word of advice for those who want a full time, permanent job in TV presenting- it is very unlikely that this will happen for you. It's not a career- it's something you can be lucky enough to do now and then and don't depend on it! Remember, your credibility as a scientist will only last while you are still a working scientist, so don't give up your day job!
Lindsay Stenhouse on Scottish TV
Some of you may remember Lindsay Stenhouse as one of the Finalists in last year's FameLab competition. She has just finished filming a stream about alien invaders (non-native species), which goes out on Friday, and for the next few weeks, on Landward at 7pm (BBC ONE Scotland). So if you're in Scotland, watch out for her on Friday.
What do you think of NESTA FameLab?
We have come to the end of another great year of NESTA FameLab, but already we are thinking about future years. We would really appreciate any feedback that you can give us about the competition so that we can make it even bigger and better. If you have any comments on anything, from your first impressions of FameLab to the format of the competition, please email [email=famelab@cheltenham.gov.uk]famelab[/email] in the subject line.
We have two specific questions, please feel free to answer one, both, or give your own comments. Anything will be useful to us.
1)Do you think there is anything that may deter people from entering NESTA FameLab (e.g. timing of auditions, audition locations, lack of detailed understanding)? Do you have any suggestions on how this could be addressed? If you thought about entering but chose not to, we would be interested to hear your reasons.
2)Can you suggest any individuals, groups, organisations that may be able to help us to promote FameLab as widely as possible? Please indicate - where you can - the specific audiences (e.g. post-graduate students, scientists in industry, physicists, biologists) they could target.
Thank you in advance, we really appreciate your help.
WE HAVE A WINNER
The final of NESTA FameLab 2007 took place on Saturday evening and it really was FANTASTIC.
Each of the finalists rose to the challenge with talk subjects ranging from the physics of Guinness to fatness genes.
But it was Nicholas Harrigan who came out victorious with his presentation on the microwave. As he says - 'Science is absolutely all around us, and things are a million times cooler if we just ask the important question: How does it work?'
To see his winning pitch visit www.s19streamserver.co.uk/famelab/fl07_final_nh_winner.mov.
Nicholas has won £2000, an internship with Channel4 and a host of speaking arrangements. He also won a selection of signed books as the winner of the audience vote prize.
The two runners up, each winning £750, were Jan Schnupp and Marieke Navin. To find out more about the final, you can read what Roger Highfield (one of the judges) had to say in his account on the Telegraph website - www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/main.jhtml?view=DETAILS&grid=A1&xml=/earth/2007/06/11/eccomp11.xml
And a big thanks to everyone who voted on the Channel 4 website for their favourite Podcast and Vodcast. The winners were Marieke Navin, who one the Podcast challenge, and Ed Sykes, one of the reserves, who one the Vodcast prize. These are still available for viewing on the Channel 4 website - www.channel4.com/famelab
Masterclass
This weekend our 7 finalists and 7 reserves took part in the residential masterclass. Malcolm Love and Kathy Sykes ran the event, and taught them all about public engagement in science, creating communication opportunities, working with the media, interviewing and being interviewed, as well as tips on developing TV and radio presentation skills.
They were also joined by guest trainers Steve Mesure and Mark Hylton. Steve ran a workshop about gaining confidence when presenting and how to engage an audience while on stage, and Mark spoke to them about being creative while communicating.
Podcasts and vodcasts - VOTE NOW
As part of the masterclass everyone (finalists and reserves) made a 59 second vodcast (video podcast) and a 99 second podcast.
You can view and listen to these by going to www.channel4.com/famelab and following the links. I'm sure you will agree with us that they are all fantastic science communicators! You can then vote for your favourite by emailing famelab@channel4.com and writing either podcast or vodcast in the subject line, followed by the name of the person. Please note that only one vote will be counted from each email address.
A special prize will be given to the winners during the final of NESTA FameLab 2007, on the 9th June at Cheltenham Science Festival.
You can win to
Channel4 are compiling a list of science related video clips, podcast and vodcasts for their FameLab site. If you have seen or heard an interesting or unusual clip online or have recorded anything of your own, send the link to famelab@channel4.com for the chance to win some Channel4 goodies.
Which scientific question does the nation most want answers to?
Psychologist, Richard Wiseman is curious about why a balloon makes such a loud bang when popped, Adam Hart-Davis wants to know whether fizzy drinks stay fizzier if kept in the fridge and Jonathan Kestenbaum, Chief Executive of NESTA (National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts), wants to know why our hair turns grey as we age.
But which scientific questions do you most want answered?
NESTA FameLab, the national competition to find the new voices of UK science and engineering, today launches a poll with the Daily Telegraph to discover which scientific questions the nation most wants answers to. Whether it's whether woodpeckers get headaches or why wet objects look darker than dry ones we want to know!
For full article click here
You can nominate your burning scientific question by going to www.telegraph.co.uk/science
Results will be announced on Tuesday 6 June just ahead of the NESTA FameLab final on 9 June.
Podcast topics
Thanks to everyone who sent us suggestions for the podcasts. The winners and finalists have been given the following topics to choose from.
1) The environmental impact of renewable energy
2) A future with Robots
3) How far can/should we travel into space?
4) Is medicine derailing the process of survival of the fittest?
5) Should we trust statistics?
6) The future for air travel
7) Is our obsession with hygiene and cleanliness causing chemical chaos?
8) Genetic modification
They will be recording their podcasts at this weekends masterclass and need to use the theme 'challenging received wisdom and orthodoxy in science'. The podcasts should then be appearing on the Channel 4 website next week. We'll let you know when they are up, so that you can start voting for your favourite!
Fancy a debate?
Do you find yourself shouting at the TV, and wanting to have your say. Come along to one of the Wellcome Trust sponsored events at the Cheltenham Science Festival, these events are all about audience participation.
Perfect Humans 12.30-1.30pm Wednesday 6th June
Current technology enables us to design a child before it is even conceived and identify imperfections from the womb. How far should we take this new science? Is life with a disability of less quality than one without? John Harris, Professor of Bioethics at the University of Manchester, Rachel Hurst, Director of Disability Awareness in Action, and Dr Thomas Stuttaford, The Times Doctor, debate the consequences.
Zombie Nation 2-3pm Wednesday 6th June
We spend more hours sleeping than anything else and symptoms of deprivation range from irritability to hallucinations and madness. We might soon be able to drug ourselves to stay awake without resorting to caffeine or amphetamines. Is it possible that we could become a sleepless society and what might the repercussions be? Join sleep expert Russell Foster to examine the future of a life without sleep.
Live and let die 6.30-7.30pm Thursday 7th June
It has been argued that ageing is a disease that can be prevented or even cured. The idea that we could live forever has seduced scientists and sci-fi authors alike. But could this cause a population explosion that might destroy the planet? Gerontologist Aubrey de Grey, neuroscientist Daniel Glaser and Jonathon Porritt argue whether it is right to strive for longevity.
High School? 4-5pm Saturday 9th June
Drugs to make you faster, stronger, sharper; drugs to elevate or dampen your mood; recreational drugs; this is the future but at what cost? Drugs are finding their way into the classroom as so-called 'smart drugs' that enable children to learn better. David Nutt explains the effects of long-term drug use and Barbara Sahakian asks whether we are turning our children into pill-poppers.
Richard Branson at Cheltenham Science Festival
We've had an exciting addition to the Science Festival line-up. Richard Branson is coming to speak in a one-off interview with Jonathan Porritt, chair of the UK sustainable development commission, and guest director of the festival. This will be a chance to hear about how big business sits with green issues.
Tickets on sale now, but going fast - £12. Visit www.cheltenhamfestivals.com for more information.
FameLab finalists at the festival
Last week we gave you a list of all the previous FameLab winners and finalists who are appearing at Cheltenham Science Festival, but David Wharton and Trevor Cox (2005 finalists) were left off the list (sorry)! Here are the details of their fantastic schools events.
2005 Finalist David Wharton - the edge of the plate Friday 8th June 10 - 11am
How does food make us who we are? Chef Rob Rees and chemist David Wharton stir up ingredients from the kitchen and laboratory to create an explosive recipe for a fun and healthy life.
2005 Finalist Trevor Cox-Beautiful music, horrible sounds Thursday 7th June 10 - 11am
Why is the sound of tweeting birds so beautiful and finger nails scraping down a blackboard so horrible? Join Trevor Cox to explore what sound is and how it can be enhanced or transformed with technology.
Mixing music with science
Like music? Like science? Why not come along to one of the music-themed events at the festival. John Mattius, described by NME as "defiantly solo - and unique too" brings his own 'cortical songs' to the festival, while Tim Blackwell produces melodic, harmonic and rhythmic patterns based on the building of swarms. Not to mention Alex James from Blur, Jem Finer, and FameLab's very own Mark Lewney. See www.cheltenhamfestivals.com
White coat - an icon for science?
Helen Pilcher (one of our judges last year) is writing a feature for a science magazine about the white coat and is looking to canvas opinion. The feature focuses on whether or not the lab coat has become an icon for science. What does the lab coat symbolise to you? to others? And is this a positive or a negative? Do you remember the first time you wore a white coat and how did it make you feel? When do you wear one now and have your attitudes towards it changed? Has you ever customised your white coat and if so how and why?
Some of these questions appear less serious than others, but it's going to be a fairly light hearted piece and Helen would very much appreciate the thoughts - no matter how brief - of real scientists.
Please email helenpilcher@gmail.com.
Podcast Challenge for our Finalists and reserves
This year we are setting our finalists and reserves two challenges for the Channel 4 website. We will be asking them all to record a 99 second audio podcast, and a 59 second video podcast. These will be recorded at the weekend residential masterclass and will appear on the Channel 4 website soon after. We will then be asking the public to vote for their favourites, and the winners will be announced at the national NESTA FameLab final in June.
We need your help.... To really challenge our finalists, we want them to talk about an unfamiliar scientific subject in their audio podcast, and what we would like you to do is suggest some topics. What would you like to know a bit more about? Black holes? Free radicals? Why emus can't fly?
If you have an idea, please email famelab@cheltenham.gov.uk with 'suggestion' in the subject line, and a one line question or subject, by the 2nd May. We will then assign suggestions to each of our finalists and reserves.
FameLabbers at Cheltenham Science Festival
Over the past three years FameLab has found some great communicators with incredible talent, and we are going to show them off. This year we have many of our previous winners and finalists performing at the Science Festival.
2005 winner Mark Lewney-Rock guitar in 11 dimensions Saturday 9th June 8.30-9.30pm
What causes the revolutionary, history-changing sound of rock guitar and how can it help us understand the nature of the stuff we are made of? Mark examines the physics of rock using riffs from Vivaldi to Queen and explains how string vibrations might lie at the heart of some of the big questions about our universe.
2006 winner Jonathan Wood- Learning from nature Saturday 9th June 12.30 -1.30pm
Why don't woodpeckers get headaches? How do geckos support their weight, upside down by one toe? Mother Nature is the ultimate inventor. Jonathan explains how the most innovative organisations are using the secrets of the world around us to create revolutionary new materials.
2005 runner-up Matt Wilkinson- The great animal race Sunday 10th June 12.30-1.30pm
What are the fastest animals over land, underwater and in the air? How are they designed for speed in their environments? What can we learn from their design? Join Matt to find out who will win the great animal race!
2006 finalists Davina Bristow and Karl Byrne-Love and other viruses Saturday 9th June 7-8pm
Davina and Karl explain what causes attraction, why we fall in love, what jealousy is, why sex is a really good idea, and take a look at some of the bugs that take advantage of our amorous liaisons.
2006 finalists- Science of Superheroes Saturday 9th June 5-6pm
Finalists from FameLab 2006 go on a trip into the world of superheroes and show you just how likely (and unlikely) some of their superpowers actually are. The answers may surprise you! Pants over tights optional.
2006 finalist Steve Robertson- On your bike Saturday 9th June 12-1pm
Can you tell your spokes from your sprockets? Bicycles are a beautiful piece of engineering - how well do you know your way around yours? Materials scientist Mark Miodownik and Steve help you to find your bearings in an interactive show for cyclists of all ages. Bring your bike for a free check up. (Please note that bicycles cannot be taken into the event - please bring a lock!)
2005 finalist Maggie Aderin-From Sputnik to Sat Nav Saturday 9th June 2-3pm
In 1957 the first man-made object orbited the moon. Now astronauts orbit for months on end, we launch probes to distant corners of the solar system and satellites are central to modern life from weather forecasts to mobile phones. Join author Piers Bizony, and space scientists Maggie and John Zarnecki to learn just how far we've come since Sputnik.
If you would like more information about Cheltenham Science Festival visit www.cheltenhamfestivals.com or ring 01242 237377 to request a brochure.
FameLab judges at Cheltenham Science Festival
We have been really lucky over the past years to get such great judges at the audition heats. Many of these judges will also be performing at the festival this year - Mark Miodownik, Jim Al-Kahlili, Claire Fox, Vivienne Parry, Peter Martin, Alice Roberts, Harry Witchel and our festival directors Kathy Sykes and Mark Lythgoe.
Our last heat...
Sunday 15th April saw the last regional heat of NESTA FameLab 2007 with the last finalist and reserve chosen. We have all had such a fantastic time travelling around and seeing all the entrants, so a HUGE thank you to everyone that has taken part and made all the events so enjoyable.
Winners from Belfast heat
The winner from Sunday was biophysicist Phillip Jess. His incredible explanation of special relativity using just an Easter egg, won him his place in the national final.
"With a Science meets X-factor feel, getting up under the spotlight and in front of the camera was a nerve wracking business but after the presentation was over it was good to discover no Simon Cowells on the judging panel. Rather the judges were really positive and gave some great pointers for improvement. After the second presentation there was a nervous wait for the judge's final decision and I was rather surprised to win as all the contestants gave really interesting presentations. FameLab was a fun day and I would highly recommend taking part even if you're a bit shy as you will get some great feedback and tips to improve so if you find yourself trying to tell your mates down the pub or over dinner about some great science you heard about then NESTA FameLab is for you."
The reserve was Fiona Dunlevy. She is currently doing a PhD studying inflammation in Cystic Fibrosis at Queens University Belfast.
"NESTA FameLab is a great competition for scientists who would like to take science (and themselves occasionally) out of the lab and into the public arena. It was a good day although at the start it was a hundred times more nerve-wracking than presenting my research to seasoned experts. I'm looking forward to the masterclass and meeting everyone from the other heats. Thanks to all the very enthusiastic and friendly NESTA FameLab crew for a great day"
The NESTA FameLab final 2007
The 2007 final is taking place at the Cheltenham Science Festival on the 9th June.
You've been following the competition all the way and now you can book your tickets to watch the final. Our seven talented finalists will be challenged to fit serious science into just five minutes.
With host Quentin Cooper, join us to find out who will win an international speaking tour, an internship with Channel 4 and £2000.
Book online at www.cheltenhamfestivals.com or phone 01242 573902. Tickets are £5 (£4 concession - not available online)
Other events at the Cheltenham Science Festival
Cheltenham Science Festival 2007 has attracted a host of the country's leading opinion formers, thinkers and artists. Jonathon Porritt is our guest director this year and has programmed a series of challenging events, involving everyone from Conservative Party Leader David Cameron to one of the UK's most outspoken environmentalists Fred Pearce.
At Cheltenham we understand that science is for all. We have a range of names not normally known for science, Alex James, former Blur bassist will discuss how science has shaped his life so far including his involvement with Britain's space programme, Chris Beardshaw, TV gardener will show you how to make your begonias bloom and Jem Finer, founder of The Pogues, will take you on a journey between music and science.
As usual Cheltenham leads the way with strong science debate and we certainly haven't shied away from the big questions from stem cell research to space. We have looked at both sides of the story and examined the obesity epidemic and the size zero controversy and will talk about the extremes people go to to conceive a child with Robert Winston.
Finally, our programme for young people is the most explosive it has ever been. From sculpting your own insides or hearing a creepy crawly cabaret to getting on your bike there is something for all ages.
If you would like more information about Cheltenham Science Festival visit www.cheltenhamfestivals.com or ring 01242 237377 to request a brochure.
Win a helicopter trip - competition for 7-16 year olds
Do you work in a school or know any children/young people? Please pass on these details to anyone you think might want to enter.
3 age categories 7-10, 11-13, and 14-16
Cheltenham Science Festival 'Transport of the future' competition
This year Cheltenham Science Festival is running a design competition sponsored by Rolls-Royce. We are asking young people to think about what transport will be like in 250 years time.
The designs will be judged in three age groups and the winners will win a trip in a helicopter, a tour of the Agusta Westland facility in Yeovil and tickets to Adam Hart-Davis's Guide to the Cosmos event at the Festival. 6 runners up in each age group will also win a pair of tickets to an event of their choice at the festival. This is more than a drawing competition - in the older age brackets the judges will take into consideration ideas and creativity as well as artwork.
Details for entry are available on our website www.cheltenhamfestivals.com
A Poster competition... with a difference
Your research is too complicated for me to understand!
Tired of getting this response when you tell people what you do? Do you want to share your excitement about research without seeing people glaze over?
Scientists are increasingly being asked to communicate the social and ethical aspects of their research. However, there are few opportunities for early-career researchers to develop their skills in discussing these issues.
perspectives, a poster session with a difference, gives you valuable experience in discussing your research with a non-specialist audience. The scheme also provides training in producing and presenting a poster. Finalists will present their posters at the BA Festival of Science in September, where prizes will be awarded by a panel of expert judges.
For more information, and to apply online, visit www.the-ba.net/perspectives
perspectives is open to postgraduate and postdoctoral researchers funded by the UK research councils.
Application deadline: 16 May 2007
Sponsored by Research Councils UK
"I made a lot of friends and it was great to see people in very similar situations professionally as me, as excited about science communication. It was like meeting a bunch of old mates!"
Last chance to enter NESTA FameLab 2007
The 2007 regional heats of NESTA FameLab are drawing to a close this weekend, with our final heat in Belfast on Sunday at Black Box. Over 120 people have entered so far this year and this is your last chance to win a place at the weekend residential masterclass and the final.
Lots of you have commented on how useful and inspiring you found the mini-masterclass at the heats, and how it was worth entering just for what you learned. Please spread the word to anyone who hasn't entered yet and lives in Northern Ireland - or fancies a spring break in Belfast! We have room for some more people and, who knows, you might even find yourself on your way to a residential weekend of training, all expenses paid, and the national final at Cheltenham Science Festival! If you have already entered once, and learned so much you're now ready to come back and win, we'll see you on Sunday!
Standing Up for Science media workshop
Come and meet leading scientists and journalists from the BBC, the Daily Mail, The Guardian and The Times
This event is open to early career researchers working in the biological sciences and bioengineering (post-doctoral fellows or equivalent in first job, and post-graduate students) and will be held on Friday 18th May 2007 in London.
Are you passionate about your research?
Do you think it is important for the good science and evidence to be communicated to a wider audience?
What can you do about misconceptions and misinformation about science?
"Excellent experience. Very instructive and great fun. Love the atmosphere and the vibe from all the people involved."
Oxford Heat
We held our largest heat of the year in Oxford on Saturday. The standard was exceptional, and we would like to thank everyone that came along to audition. Belfast is looking to be much smaller, so if you would like to give it another go, do come along (details below).
The winner was Jan Schnupp, co-director of the Auditory Neuroscience Group at the University of Oxford.
"I have often been surprised by the suspicion that many ordinary people seem to feel towards scientists. The truth is, most successful scientists are fairly ordinary people who are driven by a childlike fascination with the world around them, but often they are not very good at communicating their insights to others. As a neuroscientist I often come across quite remarkable little facts about the things that go on inside our heads, and I thought it would be fun to share them with more of the public (who, after all, pay for much of this scientific research through their taxes!). The NESTA FameLab seemed like a great opportunity to get involved, and it has proven to be fun, as well as useful. It's a great initiative and I hope there will be more like it."
The runner up was PhD student Steve Steer from the University of Surrey.
Details of the Belfast heat - 15th April
The Belfast heat is on Sunday 15th April, at Black Box. We are starting a little later than at the other heats, with registration at 10.30am. If you don't think you can make it by 11.30, it should be fine, as long as you can get there by 12.30am, but please email famelab@cheltenham.gov.uk so that we know to expect you. The mini-masterclass will be at 2pm and the regional final at 3.30pm.
The Judges in Belfast will include NESTA Trustee William Morris, electrical engineer and technical consultant, and Jan Barfoot, deputy director of the Scottish Initiative for Biotechnology Education (SIBE) at the University of Edinburgh.
Interested in communicating with young people?
With support from the Royal Society and the Gatsby Charitable Foundation, the Science Learning Centres have established a course for researchers wanting to work with young people in schools. This two day course will run from 10 am Monday 30th April to 4 pm Tuesday 1st May 2007 at the National Science Learning Centre in York.
The Science Learning Centres have considerable experience in working with researchers as partners in professional development for science teachers, seeing it as valuable way to reconnect with contemporary science. This course will support scientists wishing to have direct contact with children, either in a classroom setting, or in a setting with a larger audience of school children such as an assembly or a lecture demonstration.
Participants will update their knowledge of what happens in schools today, learning about the current National Curriculum for science and how this is translated into teaching specifications and schemes of work. There will be opportunities to explore a range of approaches to working with schools, and to develop the skills needed to communicate their expertise to an interested but lay audience, using interactive techniques.
This course is free to active researchers, including travel expenses.
To register your interest or for more information, please contact the course leader, Katy Bloom at k.bloom@slcs.ac.uk.
Institute of Physics Schools and Colleges Lecture 2008
The Institute of Physics Schools and Colleges Lecture has been delivered by a series of acclaimed physics communicators annually throughout Great Britain for over twenty years. The lecture uses demonstrations and interactivity to enthuse students and show how their classroom science relates to modern fields of physics.
We are currently looking for an enthusiastic and inspiring physicist to produce and deliver the 2008 talk to audiences of primarily 14-16 year olds at approximately 35 venues organised by the Institute (this usually involves at least two talks per venue).
Past talks have included:
The Science of Colour - Pete Vukusic, University of Exeter Gravity
Gas and Stardust - Pete Edwards, Durham University Our Planet
Our Future - Karen Bultitude, Laura Grant
Fantastic Plastic - Averil MacDonald, Surrey University
Music to your Ears - Wendy Sadler, Techniquest
Sport vs Physics - Dave James, Sheffield University
Existing talks will be considered if they have not toured nationally and in the past the Institute has funded the tour with around £20k but are happy to assist the presenter in seeking further funding if desired.
If you are interested in taking on this prestigious role for 2008 please send us a two page proposal before Tuesday 1st May 2007 outlining the talk topic, previous experience and indicative costs. We would be particularly interested in lectures linked to the opening of the LHC.
We will select a shortlist and these people will be asked to present a short talk at the Institute's offices in London. It is anticipated these will take place 11-15 June.
For queries or to submit a proposal please contact:
Joanne Page Tel: 020 7470 4887
Project Coordinator E-mail: joanne.page@iop.org
Education Department
Institute of Physics
76 Portland Place
London W1B 1NT
"You'll meet lots of other like-minded people and walk away with a handful of good contacts to keep on discussing science after the day is done."
Second talk.. for the final
We are really looking forward to seeing some of you at the Scottish heat in Glasgow on Saturday. But don't forget to plan a second three minute talk, for when you make it through to the regional final - think positively!!
Timings and Judges for Oxford
If you're planning on entering the competition in Oxford please turn up at Science Oxford from 9.00. If you need to travel a long way and will find it difficult to turn up before 10.30am, please email famelab@cheltenham.gov.uk so that we know to expect you. The mini-masterclass will taking place at 3pm, before the regional final at 4.30pm.
Our judges in Oxford are going to be Kathy Sykes (Cheltenham Science Festival Director and Professor of Public Engagement in Science and Engineering at Bristol University), Louisa Bolch (Commissioning Editor for Science and History, Channel 4) and Peter Martin (Chemical Engineer and lecturer in the Department of Engineering and Science at University of Oxford, and principal investigator for engaging cogs).
And don't forget - you can enter again!
Have you already entered, but want to give it another shot? Perhaps you have learnt a lot from the mini-masterclass and the judging panel and feel like you are now better prepared. We welcome people back, so do think about entering one of the remaining heats. You could even combine it with a weekend away!
New BBC Farming Series - Female Scientist Wanted
Would you like to be a presenter on a new BBC2 documentary? This 6-part BBC2 Specialist Factual series, presented by Jimmy ('Jimmy's Farm') Doherty will travel around the UK's regions, meeting the country's farming heroes. The idea is to uncover how and why certain foods are produced in different areas of the UK, and look at the amazing variety of techniques used to grow and rear the food we eat. Programmes will explore the history of farming as the story of our countryside, where successive generations have inscribed their way of life on the land. These stories will be brought up to date as we meet farmers who are creating new businesses by adapting thousands of years of traditional skills, and those who are striking out in new and original ways keeping Britain at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
A female presenter is needed to accompany Jimmy on his journey - someone who'll compliment Jimmy's interests and expertise, and provide a more scientific perspective. They are looking for a female scientist (already two male presenters) who's interests and expertise can be applied to the problems and challenges facing farming today (things like genetics, selective breeding, cloning and transgenics). They would like someone lively, charismatic and good at getting on with a diverse range of people and are looking for a relaxed style, and an ability to discuss the complex issues surrounding farming today in an informal way. Jimmy is quite an idealist, so they're keen to find someone to act as the 'voice of realism'!
Filming is scheduled to take place between Jun -'07 and Mar '08. The filming commitment would be 4 days per programme (so 24 days spread over this period).
A final decision regarding presenters will be made over the next couple of weeks, so if you're interested get in touch with Katy Homan ASAP. Tel - 0141 338 3869 Email - katy.homan@bbc.co.uk
BA media fellowships
The BA Media Fellowships are intended to create a greater awareness and understanding of the workings of the media among practising scientists, social scientists and engineers. The fellowships provide placements working with a national press, broadcast or internet journalist. During placements of between 3 and 8 weeks fellows learn to work within the conditions and constraints of the media to produce accurate and well informed pieces about developments in science.
The scheme's impact extends beyond the summer placement. After their placements fellows are better equipped to communicate their research and expertise to the public and their colleagues. Some go on to do freelancing as an add-on to their normal jobs, others incorporate science communication activities into their academic or professional work in science and engineering.
For more information visit www.the-ba.net/the-ba/scienceinsociety/_Schemes_and_awards/MediaFellowships/
"A very interesting and inspiring event, I very much enjoyed it. Many thanks."
Can you be an ambassador for science or engineering?
Dr Mark Miodownik, a materials scientist from King's College London and one of our judges in Glasgow this Saturday, has spoken about how important science communication is and the role that NESTA FameLab has in drawing out new talent. He says: "Science needs to get its act together. People in science are muttering in their departments about how people don't understand us. But I say that if you want to change that, you have to get out there and talk. That's why we need FameLab people.
"All great scientists are creative people" says Mark. "If you go back to Hooke and Newton, they were intellectual explorers, doing extraordinary experiments. People thought they were crazy, but their discoveries changed the world...We're looking for people who can communicate that."
Talking about NESTA FameLab, he goes on to say "Even if you don't win, you will still become part of a network of like-minded people, and through this network you can become one of the new ambassadors for science."
You can read the full interview here and come to the Glasgow heat on Saturday to meet the man himself!
Personal Development Opportunity
There are lots of different reasons for sharing your work with the public. You might want to add a new dimension to your CV, or to encourage younger people to study science or engineering. Building public support for your field, and willingness to fund it, might be important to you. Or you might simply love sharing your own excitement about your work.
Whatever your motivations, NESTA FameLab can help you with the skills and contacts that you need. Once you're on our radar, we can pass on some of the enquiries we get every week. All sorts of people, from schools seeking speakers to TV companies looking for presenters, call Cheltenham for suggestions, so make sure you're on our list. If that seems daunting, don't worry - by the time you've had feedback from our judges and taken part in Malcolm Love's masterclass, you'll feel much more confident about speaking in public, being interviewed by the press, or even talking to a TV camera. Plus, you get to meet other people like you who want to communicate science and engage with engineering!
Our winners from York
Another weekend, another fantastic FameLab heat!
Winner - Marieke Navin. Physics PhD student Marieke won the York final with her talks on Neutrinos, followed by the BIG BANG. After hearing she had won she said -
"I read about FameLab last year in the Institute of Physics magazine, and I went on the internet and thought "this is the perfect competition for me, it's right up my street", but I was too scared to enter it. It's lack of self-confidence - but I just couldn't do that again this year. I was, "come on, girl, just do it!" I just feel a surge of confidence now that I can do it! I feel absolutely fantastic about winning, and I can't wait to phone my supervisor and tell him! I'm just absolutely over the moon, it's been a fantastic day."
You can't watch Marieke's performance yet, but you can see her 'acceptance speech' here.
Reserve - Jon Silversides. You may recognise Jon and wonder why. In fact, his picture is on the FameLab homepage! He entered in 2005, but he returned again this year to try again. Jon is an editor for Royal Society of Chemistry, and it was his talk on why small things are cool that won him a place at the residential masterclass.
Judging tips from York
"Start by talking about the interesting bit - don't leave me wondering where your talk is going!"
"Try to use the different levels of your voice, and be animated."
"Make sure your message is clear."
Funding for Public Engagement Activities in Scotland
There's a total of £260,000 available from the Scottish Executive for science engagement projects in the financial year 1 April 2007-31 March 2008.
The grant programme is for projects that would otherwise not go ahead, and in the past these have included science festivals, schools outreach projects, public debates and discussion events, and professional development events for science communicators. Please note that only activity in Scotland can be considered, and the bulk of the activity must be completed by 31 March 2008. Information on this year's grant recipients can be found on the Scottish Executive's website
There's a two-stage process. If you're interested in applying you need to fill in an 'expression of interest' form, available by emailing ScienceEngagement@scotland.gsi.gov.uk. The deadline for receipt of the forms is noon on 29 March 2007. If your project is successful at this initial stage you'll be invited to complete a full application form, which will be available after April. Only in exceptional circumstances will grants of more than £30,000 be awarded.
They are particularly keen to hear about innovative projects that reach new audiences in Scotland (e.g. not just 7-11 years olds in the cities), highlight contemporary science issues, and feature collaborations with other organisations. Projects should also demonstrate good value for money (including match funding where possible) and reflect the Executive's desire to make science accessible to everyone across Scotland.
Glasgow
If you're wondering whether to join us in Glasgow, or you entered there in 2005 and aren't sure if it's worth coming back, take another look at what the York winner said.
You will certainly get valuable experience in presenting to the public, and this year you also get an hour's masterclass from a trainer who works in broadcasting and trains senior scientists to deal with the media. And you might even surprise yourself by getting a place on the residential Masterclass and a trip to Cheltenham Science Festival for the national final!
What do you have to lose? As Marieke says, "The judges gave me such excellent feedback and all the organisers were incredibly helpful and friendly."
"One of the best things about FameLab is meeting so many passionate, like-minded people, with completely different areas of interest. It was inspiring, and a whole lot of fun."
York Heat - there's still time to enter
If you know somebody who would enjoy a day developing their confidence and skills in sharing their work with the public, they can still enter in York, or at the Glasgow, Oxford or Belfast heats. One of our national finalists from last year had only decided that morning to come along - he got a weekend masterclass, a trip to the Cheltenham Science Festival, and some open doors to future opportunities, just for talking about what made his research exciting to him.
Why not turn up to the National Railway Museum tomorrow from 9 and see how you get on? At worst, you'll get constructive feedback, top-quality training and a chance to meet people like you. At best, you could have taken your first step towards hard cash and international travel! See the competition page for all the details.
Our winners from the weekend
Last weekend saw the regional heats in Cardiff and Plymouth. Once again there was a fantastic atmosphere and some great talks. We're really looking forward to seeing more in York this weekend.
CARDIFF winner - Peter Zeidman, a masters student from Birmingham University, won his place in the final by explaining how our brain can help us have a sense of direction.
"I had a great time at the Cardiff round of NESTA FameLab, I met some amazing people. Through people's talks I learnt about the physics of spaghetti, the incredible power of the sun and new ways of detecting certain cancers. I am very excited to be through to the final, and look forward seeing more people's talks! NESTA FameLab is a fantastic concept. Science is exciting and doesn't need to be out of reach of "normal people", and yet it can sometimes seem cold and impenetrable. By encouraging people working in science to communicate their field in a fun and gripping way, anyone can be inspired. I loved the Cardiff round, and look forward to meeting everyone at the final."
CARDIFF reserve - Returning from last year, Annabel Cartwright is proof that it is worth trying again. It was her talks on resonance and why the Severn Barrage might not be such a great idea, followed by how we can see in 3D that secured her a place at the weekend masterclass in May.
PLYMOUTH winner - Caroline Johnson's love of marine biology and communicating science shone through as she told us about starfish and seahorses.
"NESTA FameLab was an exciting opportunity to see if I had what it takes to communicate science. I am passionate about our planet and enjoy sharing what I know with others, it was too good an opportunity to miss. The competition was great fun and I highly recommend people have a go even if it's just to challenge themselves! I am incredibly excited about going to the final and learning some new skills along the way. Thank you NESTA FameLab."
PLYMOUTH reserve - Our reserve from Plymouth is Martin Coath, who works at the Centre for Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience in Plymouth University.
"NESTA FameLab is a genuinely good idea in a world where there are very few - kudos to whoever got it off the ground and to those who keep it running. Friendly atmosphere, uncomplicated format and like all good ideas, simple but simultaneously immensely challenging."
For details of all our winners and reserves see the finalists page
Timings and judges for Glasgow
Our Scottish heat is taking place at the Glasgow Science Centre on the 24th March. The timings in Glasgow will be the same as previous heats - registration is from 9am, but if you think you may be later than 11am please email famelab@cheltenham.gov.uk and let us know. The first round heats will be held during the morning and early afternoon. The free mini-masterclass will take place at 2pm before the final at 3.30pm.
Our expert judges in Glasgow are Mark Miodownik, a materials scientist from King's College London, meteorologist and BBC Scotland weather presenter Heather Reid and Jacqui Hayden, Head of Development at IWC Media in Glasgow.
FREE places at the Science Communication Conference
This year's conference is being held on 14 & 15 May 2007 at the Institution of Engineering and Technology, Savoy Place, London. Bursaries are being made available to ensure a diverse audience and will be awarded in each of the following categories:
* full-time scientists/engineers
* representatives from BME community outreach groups
* campaigning groups
* freelancers and those from small businesses
* science communication students
Five bursaries are offered per category and each covers conference fees, optional attendance at the conference dinner and up to £200 for accommodation and travel. Bursaries will be awarded based on how applicants intend to disseminate information from the conference to others in their field.
Friday 23 March is the DEADLINE for bursary applications.
Visit their website to find out more about the conference, to read the draft programme and to apply for a bursary. The conference is jointly organised by the BA (British Association for the Advancement of Science) and the Royal Society.
The judges comments were all really supportive and helpful, and put the entrants' minds at ease. I think the emphasis on development rather than competition was really important, as people should not be scared off from communicating science. (comment from entrant in Cardiff)
Still time to enter
We have had three great heats already in this year's competition (more on the Cardiff and Plymouth winners in the next update) but there are still four left. All you need to do is turn up and give a three minute presentation to our panel of judges.
Even if you don't have much time to prepare your talk, it's still worth coming! One of the finalists from 2006 decided in the morning of his heat to enter! We are looking for potential, not just polished speakers.
The best bit about entering is the training and development. You will receive constructive feedback, don't worry - there are no scary judges on our panels! And you will also benefit from a fantastic free masterclass in presentation and communication skills from Malcolm Love, a top trainer who has previously worked with the Royal Society. This will really help you to improve for future talks and presentations.
What people who have entered think...
"Really fun. The judges were brilliant and as everyone was relaxed it helped with the nerves. It was a really enjoyable experience and simply to see other people with passion about science was really great."
"Very well organised and well chosen judging panel. I felt at home, no pressure at all and I enjoyed everybody's presentations."
"Very useful. The judges comments were critical but constructive, so well appreciated."
"Good atmosphere, interesting talks, friendly courteous staff and great that we have the
masterclass too."
"The judges and staff do a great job of making you relaxed and confident. Very helpful comments."
Judges comments
Here a few more tips from our judges over the weekend
"If you use props, make sure the whole audience can see them"
"Dramatic pauses really add gravitas"
"Over-practice can make your talk sound scripted. Don't learn your talk word perfect, if you ad-lib it will help your personality shine through."
"Don't cram too much into three minutes, but make sure there is some science in there."
FAQs
I can't get there for 9 am - can I still enter?
Yes, you can register till noon - if you think you might be later than 11am, let us know and we can reserve you a place.
I can't talk about my own work, it's confidential
You're not limited to your own research or job - you could choose any aspect of science, mathematic or engineering that you think would appeal to an adult audience.
I haven't had time to prepare - won't I spoil my chances in future if I enter now?
You would learn a lot by entering now, getting the free training and then coming back when you feel more confident. We love to see people develop - and last year, somebody who entered one heat improved so much after getting feedback that he came to a second heat and got into the national final!
Are't you just looking for attractive airheads to go on TV?
We don't want clones of TV presenters, we want new approaches to communicating science both live and through the media. So come and surprise us!
Doctor Lewney in Cardiff
Mark Lewney, our winner from 2005 is doing his own show at Techniquest in Cardiff this evening. He also has a number of other shows coming up. Please see his website for more information.
Timings and judges for York
If you are planning on entering FameLab in York, registration will start at 9am. However, if you are travelling a long way, you can turn up later in the morning. If you think you will be later than 11am, please email famelab@cheltenham.gov.uk so we know to expect you. The first round heats will run throughout the morning, with the mini-masterclass at 2pm. The regional final will be taking place at 3.30pm.
The judging panel in York will be Vivienne Parry - science journalist and former presenter of Tomorrow's World, Chris Walker - Head of Development at True North Productions, and Alastair Fitter FRS - Ecologist and Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research at York University
London Winners
We have our first regional winner - NESTA FameLab 2007 kicked off at the Dana Centre in London on Tuesday and it was a fantastic day. There was a wide selection of topics from free electron lasers to golf balls! Many members of the public came to watch the final and to see who would make it through to the national final. The judges had to make a really tough decision, but it was NICHOLAS HARRIGAN, with his talk about spiders that impressed them the most.
Nicholas is a Physics PhD student, studying quantum foundations and information, from Imperial College. You can see his winning presentation here
The reserve from the London heat is technology consultant Steve Mould. His impressive discussions about the golden ratio secured him a place at the media masterclass in May. Steve said "If you get a kick out of explaining things, NESTA FameLab is the ultimate competition. It's great fun trying to work out the best way to convey a tricky idea, but doing it as part of a contest is both thrilling and terrifying. It felt great to win a place at the masterclass, especially against such stiff competition!"
Congratulations to everyone that entered, we were really impressed with the standard of the talks.
There are still 6 places in the final up for grabs, and don't forget that one reserve from each regional heat will win a place at the weekend masterclass - all you have to do is come along to one of the other heats with your 3-minute talk and give it your best shot.
Judges tips from London
To help you prepare for you future presentations, we thought we would share some tips from our London judges with you.
* Make sure you keep to time. It's such a shame if you don't get to finish your talk!
* It's great to use real life examples, or relate a complex topic to everyday life so the audience knows why your subject is relevant.
* Be careful with props - too small and the audience can't see them, too large or too many, and the focus is taken away from your talk.
* You need to explain technical terms, otherwise don't use them!
Timings for Cardiff and Plymouth heats
There are two NESTA FameLab heats this weekend. So if you intend on auditioning at the heats in Wales or the south west, please come along to the National Museum Cardiff on Saturday 10th March, or the National Marine Aquarium, in Plymouth, on Sunday 11th March. Registration is from 9am at both venues, and the first round will take place during the morning and early afternoon.
The mini-masterclasses will be taking place from 2pm until 3pm. If you are entering the competition, don't miss this fantastic opportunity to learn from some real science communication and media experts.
And don't forget to prepare for a second talk - you'll need this if you are successful in the first round and make it through to the regional final. This will take place from 3.30pm, and of course everyone is welcome to stay and watch. The regional winner should be announced by 5.30pm. This person automatically secures a place in the Cheltenham Science Festival final on Saturday 9 June, and the 2 day masterclass near Cheltenham in May.
Hope to see you there, they should both be great days.
Judging panels
Cardiff The judging panel in Cardiff will consist of Jim Al-Kahlili, Nuclear physicist and Professor of the public engagement in science at the University of Surrey, Wendy Sadler, director of Science Made Simple in Cardiff, and Julia Cartwright from Greenbay Media.
PlymouthThe judges in Plymouth will be Neuropharmacologist Dr. Gill Samuels CBE, award winning programme maker, Neil Edwards and Roy Lowry, senior lecturer at the centre for chemical sciences (University of Plymouth) and rocketeer!
They're all looking forward to seeing some great talks and giving you their feedback.
Timings for London heat
If you are planning on taking part in FameLab in London next week, Tuesday 6 March, then please come along to the Dana Centre at 9am (www.danacentre.org.uk). Applicants will be asked to register from 9am, and the first round will take place during the day.
The mini-masterclass will take place from 5pm until 6pm. If you are entering the competition, don't miss this fantastic opportunity to learn from some real science communication and media experts.
The second round will take place from 7pm for those who are successful in making it through, and of course everyone is welcome to stay and watch. The regional winner should be announced by 9pm. Don't forget that that person automatically secures a place in the Cheltenham Science Festival final on Saturday 9 June, and the 2 day masterclass near Cheltenham in May.
Hope to see you there, it should be a great day. While waiting for your three minutes of fame, you could take a look around the Science Museum (www.sciencemuseum.org.uk) - or just relax in the Dana Centre cafe.
Judging panel in London
The judging panel in London is an impressive line-up consisting of Claire Fox - Director of the Institute of Ideas, Mark Lythgoe - neurophysiologist and director of Cheltenham Science Festival, Louisa Bolch - Commissioning Editor for Science at Channel 4, and Alice Roberts - anatomist and presenter of BBC 2's Don't Die Young series. They're all looking forward to seeing some great talks and giving you their feedback.
What to bring to your audition
- any props or visual aids you'll need. Remember that you can only use props that you can take on and off stage with you. There is NO time for setting up.
- any notes or script you've prepared, for last minute rehearsing - but put them away before you go on
- money for refreshments - you may be there all day
What not to bring
- big, elaborate props, effects or scenery - you'll have no set up time, and you may not be allowed to use dangerous effects like fire or steam.
Want to watch?
The competition is open to the public to come and watch. If you're not taking part we would suggest you come for the second round at 7pm to see the winner decided. And it's free, so if you are taking part bring your family and friends along to support you!
The other auditions
If you are not taking part in London, there are six other opportunities for you to enter FameLab:
Cardiff - Saturday 10 March at the National Museum
Plymouth - Sunday 11 March at the National Marine Aquarium
York - Saturday 17 March at the National Railway Museum
Glasgow - Saturday 24 March at Glasgow Science Centre
Oxford - Saturday 31 March at Science Oxford
Belfast - Sunday 15 April at Black Box
We'll send you more information about each of these in the week before the audition.
Where are you taking part?
Thank you if you have already informed us of where you plan to audition. If you haven't yet, we're trying to get an idea of numbers for each audition, so tell us where you plan to go. Please reply to this email writing your audition venue of choice in the subject heading (e.g. "Oxford") - even if you are still undecided about giving it a shot. Details of the second and third regional rounds in Cardiff and Plymouth will be sent out later this week.
Less than two weeks to go...
The first heat in London is nearly upon us and we are very excited about meeting you and seeing your talks! We will send details about the day and timings next week, but in the meantime we have answered some of your frequently asked questions here. We've also included some of the judges' tips from last year, so make sure you get the insider's view before you plan your talk! If you have any other questions please email us famelab@cheltenham.gov.uk.
What are we looking for?
We're looking for people who can share science and engineering with the public, both in person and through the mass media. You need to be spot-on with the science, get difficult ideas across clearly and concisely, and be able to share your passion for the subject. So the ideal NESTA FameLab entrant will be equally electrifying with a live audience or in front of a TV camera. But we're also looking for potential - if you've got the spark, we want to help you develop.
Judges tips from last year
What are the judges looking for? The 3 Cs : Content (accurate and well chosen), Clarity and Charisma. You can watch videos of last year's finalists at www.famelab.org but remember, we don't want copies of someone else's style, we want you to surprise us with something new. But we've selected some top tips from last year's judges to help focus your ideas:
"Think about structure, especially how you will end. Tell a story, or ask questions and then answer them."
"Props can be useful, but make sure you're talking to me, not looking at them." (NB there is no set-up time for props)
"Try and look relaxed, even if you're not. Smile, make eye contact, remember to breathe. If you don't enjoy it, neither will anybody watching."
"Don't underestimate your audience - they're not specialists, but they are adults, and they're hoping to learn something new from you."
"Be yourself!"
What will I gain from entering?
The national finalists and reserves will get a residential weekend masterclass with some of the best science communicators around, and even if you don't get through, we aim to help you open other doors. The judges will give everybody brief feedback, and there will be a mini-masterclass at each of the auditions. We'll also let you know about any other opportunities we can find in the future.
But don't take our word for it: here's what some of last year's finalists said right after their heats:
Sarah Curtis, Chemistry Student, Newcastle heat:
"Would I recommend the competition to others? Absolutely. Nobody's out to make you look stupid, the support and feedback were brilliant and it's a complete contrast to everyday life in the lab."
Sarah Forbes-Robertson, medical researcher, Swansea heat:
"I learnt a lot about presentation skills, just from watching the other contestants. All the judges were fantastic - they gave really positive feedback, and not a single Simon Cowell moment!"
David Loong, chemistry student, London heat :
"Even if you think you're not prepared, just turn up and give it a go - you never know if your enthusiasm might shine through despite everything."
(And he should know - he only decided to enter on the day!)
Sima Adhya, space scientist, Belfast heat:
"One of the best things about Famelab is meeting so many passionate, like-minded people, with completely different areas of interest. It was inspiring, and a whole lot of fun."
When do I need to be there?
You will need to register at the venue from 9am on the morning of the heat. You can register later than 9am, but note that places are on a first-come first-served basis and the sooner you register the earlier your audition will be (and the fresher the judges will feel!). We will be sending out all the information you need for the first heat (London) next week. You should plan to be at your heat all day, although in reality you will get some time between registering, your first round, the mini-masterclass and the second round to pop out and do other things.
Where are you taking part?
If you are planning on entering this year's competition, and you haven't told us already, please let us know where you are going to enter. Even if you are not sure yet, this will help us to get an idea of numbers. Simply email famelab@cheltenham.gov.uk with your chosen city (e.g. "Plymouth") in the subject line.
Want to see FameLab but not entering?
If you decide not to enter this year and you are over 18 you can volunteer to help out at your local heat. We need people to act as runners and general helpers. It will give you an opportunity to watch other entrants, gain experience at a science communication event or to get some ideas for your entry next year! Please email famelab@cheltenham.gov.uk if you are interested.
NESTA FameLab Update
NESTA FameLab 2007
Are you ready to talk science?
FameLab is back for a third year, now known as NESTA FameLab, this year it's bigger and better!
There will be seven heats this year across the country:
6th March London Dana Centre
10th March Cardiff National Museum Cardiff
11th March Plymouth National Marine Aquarium
17th March York National Railway Museum
24th March Glasgow Glasgow Science Centre
31st March Oxford Science Oxford
15th April Belfast Black Box
The grand final will be held in the main Arena at Cheltenham Science Festival on Saturday 9th June.
The winner will receive £2000 and a two-week internship with Channel 4, with two runners-up each getting £750. With the British Council we also organise a programme of appearances for the winner and runners-up that may involve travelling abroad to represent UK science and technology
At the regional heats you will have just three minutes to impress our panel of expert judges, and if you get through to the regional final later in the day, you will need to give a different three minute talk to try to secure a place in the grand final.
This year, we are also holding a mini-masterclass at each of the auditions for ALL participants. One of the country's leading science communication trainers will come along for one hour to give top tips and advice on presentation and communication skills.
One winner and one reserve will go through from each of the seven heats to win a weekend masterclass in science communication. Here, you will work with TV producers, journalists, science communicators and media trainers. You will be able to develop your media and presentation skills, get a behind-the-scenes insight into TV production, deconstruct science presentations and work with the team to develop an idea you can take forward for television or a series of talks.
So if you want to share your passion with the world, come along to one of the regional heats. OR if you know someone with a flair for conveying complex ideas who can't stop talking about science, why not get them to enter.
To be eligible you must be working in or studying science, technology, engineering, or maths. Any questions please email - famelab@cheltenham.gov.uk
The new website is being launched next week. Please check back for further details.
Do you know a brilliant science communicator?
Each year the BA Award Lectures offer a rare opportunity to honour five professional scientists or engineers in the early stages of their career who show outstanding skills in communicating to a non-specialist audience.
Winners will be invited to give a one hour presentation at the BA Festival of Science 2007 at the University of York between 10-14 September - one of the most popular components of the Festival programme. As well as a cash prize, they will also be invited to contribute an article on their lecture to appear in the Science and Public Affairs publication.
For more information about the Award Lecture scheme and how to nominate, go to www.the-ba.net/AwardLectures or email festival@the-ba.net.
Nominations must be received by 24 February 2007.
Interested in art?
Karen Neil is an artist and a fellow of the Digswell Arts Trust who specialises in liquid crystal. She is looking to work with a scientist who is interested in art - but particularly liquid crystal. Please see her website to see examples of her work and for contact details - www.karenneill.com
Fancy a debate about engineering?
Are We Moving fast Enough?
Does more speed always mean a society is making progress? Or is it time to put the brakes on our breakneck world?
Historically, engineers have worked to help us do things faster: travel, make things, communicate with each other. Speed seemed synonymous with progress -until recently. Since Concorde's demise, we can no longer travel as fast as we could last century, and now there are calls for modern life to slow down. Have we woken up to the dangers and drawbacks of the need for speed? Or can we still free up more time through using technology?
Speakers:
Carl Honore, author of "In Praise of Slow"
Andrew English, Daily Telegraph Motoring correspondent
Dr. Peter Martin, University of Oxford department of Engineering Science
Hayward Gallery, South Bank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XZ
Wednesday February 7th, 6 PM
As part of the "100 Ideas to Change the World" Festival
Admission FREE by advance registration at www.engagingcogs.org or by telephone on 0203 206 0010
Come and join the discussion, or log on to the online debate at www.engagingcogs.org
engaging cogs
engineering in the public mind
Mark Lewney - appearing on Channel 4
2005 FameLab winner Mark Lewney will be appearing on Channel 4 on the Wednesday 24th January. Catch his three minute wonder at 1.20pm, or see it at:-
FameLab is back for a 3rd year - and this year we've had a name upgrade to show our appreciation to our major sponsor NESTA. There will be 7 regional heats this year across the country, starting in London in March. Check back soon for more details of NESTA FameLab 2007.
First, we have to tell you that it was a stunningly close-fought final. The judges took so long to reach a decision that our poor host, Quentin Cooper, had interviewed nearly everybody in the room and was practically leading an audience singalong by the time the judges returned to give their verdict only twenty minutes late.
In the meantime, the audience had used a scientifically accurate clap-o-meter, kindly lent by last year's finalist Trevor Cox, to pick their favourite, Sima Adhya, who had impressed them by using balloons to demonstrate how the Moon is slowing the Earth's rotation. She was presented with a signed copy of Armand Leroi's book, Mutants.
The audience also heard the 99 second podcast that won the public vote on Channel 4's website. Sarah Forbes-Robertson from Swansea used her minute and a half to explain what makes an octopus different from other sea life - and from most other life on Earth. She described their system that uses blue blood and multiple hearts as being like Betamax - just as good as the planet's commoner red-blood system, but not so popular. Sarah took home a digital radio kindly sponsored by Silicon 19.
Eventually the judges were forced to make a decision, and - perhaps taking account of the audience choice - they picked as runners-up Sima Adhya, a space scientist working for Qinetiq, and Scottish parasitologist Lindsay Stenhouse. Lindsay had gambled by asking judge Mark Lythgoe to don a green beard to help her explain the Selfish Gene theory.
But the overall winner of FameLab 2006 was the man who had gone last in his heat and last in the final, thanks to the alphabetical unfairness of surnames. Jonathan Wood, biologist turned Deputy Editor of research journal Materials Today, from Oxford, was first after all. Jonathan wowed the judging panel with a tale that began with Spiderman and ended with genetically modifying goats to produce a substance in their milk with the tensile strength of steel.
Of course, this isn't the last you'll hear of our ten finalists, or of many other talented communicators who came along to one of the regional heats. The aim of FameLab is to bring all these scientists and engineers into the public eye any way we can. So, if you're a science centre looking for a speaker, or a local radio show looking for some fresh material, or have any other ideas for how to exploit the FameLab pool of genius, please get in touch.
And watch this space later in the year for details of FameLab 2007.
Dr Mark Lewney, winner of FameLab 2005 appeared on the BBC Children's Program XChange today (Tuesday 15 November). Mark was described as a cross between Einstein and Jimmy Hendrix by this popular program broadcast on the BBC's CBBC channel. After revealing the science behind the electric guitar, and other musical instruments Mark jammed with the presenters and children on the show creating an ear splitting wall of sound. See www.bbc.co.uk/CBBC/xchange
FameLab was officially launched last night at a reception in London. Jonathan Kestenbaum, NESTA's new Chief Executive Officer, Kathy Sykes, Cheltenham Science Festival Director, and Roger Highfield, Science Editor of the Daily Telegraph were amongst those who spoke at the launch. They were joined by the winner of FameLab 2005, Dr Mark Lewney who once more give the 'electrifying' performance, complete with electric guitar, that saw him win last year's competition. Representatives of the worlds of science, the arts and the media were all present to celebrate the success of FameLab 2005 and to welcome this year's competition.
A new poll published on Tuesday 8 November 2005 reveals that the public feel it is very important for them to be informed about new developments in science and technology and they see the media as the most effective method for scientists to do this.
The MORI survey commissioned by NESTA (the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts) coincides with the launch of FameLab - a national competition to discover the new faces of UK science. This initiative, dubbed the science world's equivalent of Pop Idol is the brainchild of NESTA the Cheltenham Science Festival.
The need for the talent search has been validated by the poll findings which show an overwhelming public appetite for information on science with nine in ten thinking it is important to be informed about new developments in science and technology. However, only four in ten actually feel informed.
When asked about the importance of scientists using the media to keep the public informed of new developments in science and technology, 95 per cent think it is important. A large proportion, two thirds (69%), thinks it is very important.
Just over half of British adults cited the government as having the main responsibility for providing information, support or advice about science, to the general public. However, looking at combinations of responses, two-thirds of adults (66 per cent) place responsibility with the media and 30% with scientists.
The MORI/NESTA poll indicates that no science presenter gets high ratings as being an all-time favourite. When asked to name their most memorable science presenter, 53 per cent could not name one, and this increased to 74 per cent among 15 to 24 year olds. Sir David Attenborough and Sir Patrick Moore, were identified by the highest proportions (but only by nine per cent in each case) with Lord Winston coming next with six per cent.
The public feels that the biggest barrier to greater understanding of science and technology which the public faces is a lack of appreciation of how science affects the general public (35%). This is followed by several things which are mentioned by similar proportions, namely: a lack of public interest/apathy (29%), the use of scientific jargon (29%) and a lack of education (28%). Other key barriers include: little understanding of what scientists do (24 per cent), lack of relevance of information presented, to everyday lives (23 per cent) and information being presented in boring and unimaginative ways (23 per cent).
View the 2005 FameLab champion's winning pitch here.
Patent Office worker Dr Mark Lewney wowed the festival crowds with his final presentation - click here to watch.
(You'll need Quicktime to view the clip, and it takes a few moments to download)
Dr Mark Lewney, a physicist from Cardiff has won FameLab 2005 - the science world's equivalent of Pop Idol and the brainchild of the Cheltenham Science Festival in partnership with NESTA (The National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts).
Mark's "electrifying" performance on the physics of music, complete with electric guitar riffs, had the audience and judges at the Cheltenham Science Festival enthralled. After the audience's rapturous applause Simon Singh, broadcaster and NESTA Fellow, and one of the FameLab judges quipped "it was alright" but swiftly went on to concede that Mark's performance was "gob-smackingly amazing".
Mark was presented with a cheque for £2,000 and will now enter discussions with Channel 4 on his potential career as a television science presenter. Mark will also perform at a series of live science events including the Cheltenham Science Festival 2006.
Hamish Mykura, Head of History, Science and Religion at Channel 4, and also on the judging panel said, "FameLab has proven a fantastic way of road-testing talent. The reaction of the audience in the final spoke volumes and they loved Mark. He left the opposition behind. It is exactly this kind of talent that works on TV."
The FameLab final took place at the Cheltenham Science Festival on Saturday (June 11). Twelve finalists were whittled down to 6 during the afternoon's live semi-finals. In the evening the final 6 each had 5 minutes to win over the audience and judging panel that also included Robert Winston, Professor of Fertility Studies and BBC Presenter, Roger Highfield, Science Editor, The Daily Telegraph, and Louisa Bolch, Science Editor, Channel 4. Talking of the high standards in the final Robert Winston said it was "humbling" to listen to the presentations.
After a voting procedure that saw the Cheltenham Festival audience voting to eliminate 2 of the 6 finalists the judges announced the two runners up, Dr David Booth an evolutionary biologist from Belfast and Dr Matt Wilkinson a zoologist from Cambridge, who each received cheques for £750, before revealing the overall winner.
On being announced the winner Mark said it was "unbelievable" and went on to thank his wife, fellow competitors and all involved in FameLab, he encouraged anyone who entered and didn't get through to "have another go".
Mark, who works as a patent examiner in the UK Patent Office near Newport, was selected to go through to the FameLab final at a regional heat held in Cardiff. Over 300 individuals entered the competition at regional auditions held throughout the spring.
On the success of the FameLab initiative Susan Butler, Communications Director at NESTA said, "The need for new passionate and committed science communicators in the UK has been a growing concern for many and the interest in FameLab since its launch over eight months ago is indicative of this. This unusual competition is a real innovation in science and an excellent way to uncover new talent, to find the next Robert Winston or Johnny Ball. It is a further example of NESTA's commitment to finding new ways to engage the public in science."
Kathy Sykes, Director of the Cheltenham Science Festival said, "I have been overwhelmed by the level of interest in FameLab, hundreds of people entered revealing a thriving community of talented scientists in the UK committed to communicating. We may have our winner but we also have the other trained finalists who've already been offered great speaking and media opportunities. A whole new generation of communicators has been unearthed and we're looking at ways of encouraging them to keep on talking about science."
How do you explain a complex scientific idea simply to non-scientists? What makes the difference between an inspiring science presenter and a droning bore? Where does charisma come from and what use is it?
As part of FameLab we were interested in exploring these issues, which is why we asked Professor Richard Wiseman to help us investigate why certain people won the judges votes at the regional heats.
All this and more can be explored on the FameLab microsite hosted by Channel 4.
Test your own charisma or cast your vote for your favourite FameLab finalist.
Check out the FameLab launch party featuring Robert Winston, Roger Highfield, Kathy Sykes and more.
You'll need Quicktime to view the clip, and you may need to wait a moment or two for it to load.
Steve Jones expressed his own opinions about how he feels FameLab should choose its winners in The Daily Telegraph
Wanted: enthusiasm not eccentricity
10th November 2004
The Daily Telegraph
Read it online
FameLab patron Sir Paul Nurse, who won the Nobel Prize for his work in cancer cell research in 2001, launched the first FameLab national competition on November 9th 2005 at an evening in the English National Opera's new Sky Bar attended by some of the biggest names in science.
Speaking from New York to an audience including Robert Winston and Colin Pillinger; Sir Paul explained that public confidence in the scientific enterprise is vital to provide a mandate for further work. He also said that FameLab would "move public communication more to the centre of the scientific agenda" helping dispel the feeling within the scientific community that talking with the public is not important, or to be respected.
FameLab aims to find new faces of science who can communicate their enthusiasm for the subject. Kathy Sykes, herself a experienced science communicator and broadcaster as well as co-Director of Cheltenham Science Festival said of the competition, "we are looking for people who have scientific stars in their eyes, people who can present an entertaining, original and exciting talk that is scientifically accurate but appealing to a non-scientific audience".
© Cheltenham Festivals 2006/7