Media Statements - Big rewards for WA students in US science competition

8/2/08

Western Australian students, teachers and academics have been called to action to compete in a prestigious United States science competition.

Industry and Enterprise Minister Francis Logan said successful competitors in the sanofi-aventis International BioGENEius Challenge of WA would be sent to compete in the US.

It is the first time competitors outside North America have been allowed in the challenge.

Mr Logan said the unique competition provided students with the opportunity to extend themselves beyond the school curriculum and help showcase WA’s biotechnology skills.

“The BioGENEius Challenge is an exciting new way to engage high school students in real-world biotechnology research, with the aim to inspire them to consider a career in biotechnology,” he said.

“It is a fact that we need more science-related professionals in WA and students in our classrooms today could become our scientists of tomorrow.

“The competition will also help showcase WA’s world-class biotechnology research when WA’s top two students progress to the international competition, held in the US each year.”

The BioGENEius Challenge of WA will run from March 2008 to July 2009. Selected students will spend a year working on a biotechnology-related research project under the guidance of WA’s top researchers.

The top two students and their mentors will also participate in the leading biotechnology conference, the BIO International Convention in Boston, when they attend the international final.

The BioGENEius Challenge pilot program was officially launched yesterday at Scitech, with the help of more than 60 enthusiastic science teachers and academics from our leading universities and research institutions.

“Biotechnology is the most exciting science of the 21st century and underpins a broad range of industries from agriculture to pharmaceuticals,” Mr Logan said.

“I encourage the State’s science teachers, from both independent and public schools, to get excited about the opportunities the BioGENEius Challenge presents for the passionate students in their classes.

“A test competition has been running since August last year with outstanding results, bringing benefits to students, mentors and teachers.”

Applications for the BioGENEius Program close on Friday, March 14. More information and application forms can be downloaded from http://www.doir.wa.gov.au/bioGENEius

Minister's office: 9222 8950