Young Tassie Scientist Jeremy Just, by Peter Mathew
Spanning the disciplines from astrophysics to zoology, 14 enthusiastic scientists are taking to the road this week to spread the word about their research and careers as part of the Young Tassie Scientists program.
Over the next fortnight they will be giving presentations to more than 4,000 students in more than 40 schools across southern Tasmania, from Bruny Island to Glenora, Collinsvale to Nubeena and in between.
The Young Tassie Scientist program aims to inspire Tasmanians by showcasing Tasmanian research and what a career in science really involves.
In celebration of National Science Week, the Young Tassie Scientists will share their passion for science and learning with more than 15,000 Tasmanians at various National Science Week events in schools, science festivals and expos during August.
Co-ordinator Dr Adele Wilson from the University of Tasmania said the program was about encouraging young people to see the many different aspects of science beyond the lab coats.
“We aim to inspire Tasmanians by sharing local science stories from our young scientists who are working and researching right here in Tasmania, in disciplines including Antarctic studies, entomology, marine biology, environmental science, zoology and geology,” Dr Wilson said.
“We find that school students always ask lots of great questions and going into schools and meeting students face to face makes a real difference.
Dr Wilson said the Young Tassie Scientists program was not only a fantastic opportunity for schools, it also allowed our talented young researchers to share their experiences in science and engineering with other Tasmanians.
“World-class scientific research is happening right here in Tasmania every day, we are lucky to live in such a fascinating place,” said Dr Wilson.
utas.edu.au
The Young Tassie Scientists will deliver interactive presentations, talks and hands-on
activities to students.
They will visit North West Tasmania this week, and later this month the West Coast, East
Coast, Midlands and Northern Tasmania.
The Young Tassie Scientists program received funding from the Australian Government
through a National Science Week grant, and is supported by the University of Tasmania’s
Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology.
More information about the Young Tassie Scientists, including scientist profiles, can be
found at www.youngtassiescientists.com
University of Tasmania, Communications and Media Office
