The 5th Annual Science in Medicine School Teams Prize is now open, a national competition designed to inspire sixth form students to explore how science, technology, and health research can work together to improve lives.
We’re encouraging teachers, parents, carers, and supporters to help motivate students to take part in this unique opportunity to step beyond the school curriculum, build valuable skills, and gain experience in science communication and research thinking.
What’s the Challenge?
Teams of 2 to 6 students will work together to design an e-poster that presents an innovative idea combining science, health, and technology. Projects should explore how their idea could improve health and wellbeing, while considering real-world challenges like affordability, accessibility, and impact.
There are five themed contests to choose from:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Lung Health
- Rare Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases (RAIRDs)
- Global Health and Climate Change
- Cancer Patient Support
Students will have the chance to:
- Think creatively and beyond the classroom curriculum
- Explore multidisciplinary approaches – from biology and medicine to computing, engineering, art, and social sciences
- Understand the real-world impact of science and research
- Develop teamwork, communication, and design skills
What Can Teams Win?
- Prizes: £3,000 for 1st place, £2,000 for 2nd, and £1,000 for 3rd (awarded to schools for science-related activities)
- Shortlisted teams will present to expert judges at a live online final
- Optional academic mentoring opportunities
- Certificates for all participants
- Opportunities to publish blogs about their project
Participation is a great way for students to strengthen university applications and gain experience valuable for future careers in science, health, technology, or design.
Who Can Enter?
- Any UK school or sixth form with students under 19 (as of September 2024)
- Collaborations are welcome — between UK schools or between a UK school and an international partner
- Teams should have 2 to 6 students with a mix of skills encouraged — including science, engineering, art, design, and communication
How to Get Involved:
Encourage students to take on this exciting challenge and represent your school. Full challenge guidelines, resources, and submission details can be found here: https://www.imperial.ac.uk/bhf-research-excellence/community/
Deadline for submissions: Monday 30 June 2025, 5 pm
For more information or support, contact school-teams-prize@imperial.ac.uk
Ready to take on the challenge? Think big, be creative, and make a difference!
