The Google Science Fair is taking science contests to a new global level. CERN, home to the Large Hadron Collider, has partnered with Google to create a prize package to match the scope of the fair.
A three-day trip to CERN is one of several prizes that the winner of the Google Science Fair may select.
One lucky winner will have the opportunity to spend three days at the CERN laboratory in Geneva, Switzerland. The winner would visit the laboratory and experimental areas, take part in shifts in the control room at the LHC, and experience science in the making by becoming an apprentice physicist.
CERN, with its collaborative international spirit, is a natural partner for the Google’s worldwide contest. James Gillies, head of CERN’s communication office, said the organization was pleased to be part of the fair.
“The science fair is a great way to engage young people with science, that's why we decided to get involved,” Gillies said. “It's not an easy ride. Entrants are being asked to do some serious scientific thinking. I'm much looking forward to seeing the entries.”
To enter, students only need access to the internet. Participants may build their projects by themselves or in teams of three and submit them online. See an example project here.
Unlike a traditional regional science fair, entrants can collaborate or compete with other students from anywhere on the planet. Participants must be between the ages of 13-18
The LEGO Group, National Geographic and Scientific American are also partnering with the Google Science Fair. Other prize opportunities include a trip to the Galapagos Islands on a National Geographic expedition, a virtual internship for one year with the LEGO MINDSTORMS research and development team, and three days in New York learning the ropes at the Scientific American offices.
Registration is open through April 4, 2011. Semi-finalists will be announced in early May.
Click here for more information or to register for the Google Science Fair.
