JIC Science Camp blog

Discover how optical illusions trick our eyes and brains, and explore how predictions, context and past experiences can shape the way we see and understand the world.

Discover what it’s like to spend a week at the John Innes Centre Year 10 Summer Camp, from hands-on experiments and bioinformatics to a real scientific work placement.

Discover the dark history of ‘phossy jaw’, the devastating disease that affected match factory workers, and explore the fascinating bone biology behind the condition.

Explore how tiny bubbles and ultrasound could help deliver cancer drugs more effectively, and discover the physics behind this promising area of cancer research.

Thanks to Jack Petchey Foundation funding, London and Essex schools can access up to 15 subsidised Youth STEMM Award places for Years 7–12 for just £50.

From rapid prototyping to 3D-printed homes, explore how 3D printing is changing manufacturing and why it could play a major role in the future of engineering.

From chlorophyll and the Calvin cycle to cleaner hydrogen production, this blog explores how photosynthesis works and what it could teach us about future energy.

Could humans one day live on Mars? This blog explores the Red Planet's biggest challenges, from radiation and freezing temperatures to growing food and finding water.

A new two-factor authentication step is soon to go live on the YSA e-portfolio, adding an extra layer of protection to keep accounts secure.

An exploration of gender bias in medicine, looking at how research gaps and stereotypes influence diagnosis, treatment, and patient care.

An exploration of the Mariana Trench, revealing its extreme geology, remarkable marine life, and the human impact reaching the deepest part of the ocean.

From pistons and crankshafts to deflagration and engine knock, this post explains the science behind internal combustion engines and how chemistry and physics power modern cars.

In this Q&A, Daria speaks to a STEMM educator about career journeys, teaching and the skills needed to succeed in computer science, AI and education.

From downforce to DRS, Siena breaks down how aerodynamics keeps F1 cars fast, stable and glued to the track, showing how physics drives the cutting edge of racing design.

Invisible, elusive and endlessly mysterious, neutrinos are key to understanding our universe. Alex explains what they are, how they form and why physicists find them so fascinating

From solids and liquids to plasma and the mysterious Bose–Einstein Condensate, Laura uncovers the surprising ways matter behaves when pushed to its limits.

From lab experiments to drone tours, George’s week at the John Innes Centre Year 10 Science Camp opened his eyes to the exciting world of STEM careers.

How effective is UK midwifery care today? Hannah examines the vital role of midwives in supporting safe births and improving outcomes for mothers and babies.

Follow the journey of rearing the near-threatened Large Marsh Grasshopper, from eggs to release, and discover how citizen keepers support rewilding.

Discover the science of sleep, from circadian rhythms to REM cycles, and learn why rest is vital for memory, brain health, and overall wellbeing.

Izzy brought science to life for her local Brownie unit with hands-on experiments in biology and physics - proving STEMM can be fun, messy, and memorable!

Discover how neutron stars form, what makes them so extreme, and the mind-bending physics behind these dense stellar remnants, from supernovae to kilonovae.

Learn how Ready-to-use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) helps treat severe acute malnutrition in children, supporting rapid recovery and saving lives.

Explore hydrogen’s potential as a clean fuel, its challenges for combustion engines, and how fuel cells offer a sustainable energy alternative.

How likely is it that two people share a birthday? The answer might surprise you.

Discover the science and history behind Prince Rupert Drops -glass droplets with nearly indestructible heads and explosive tails that helped shape modern materials.

Discover how differential privacy helps companies use your data without revealing your identity — and why it matters in today’s digital world.

pH makeup reacts with your skin to create a unique shade! Explore the science behind it and learn how to choose pH-friendly beauty products.

Explore diverse pathways in biomedicine, from university study to exciting careers. Learn from a PhD student’s insights and discover your future!

Could humans live on the Moon? Youth STEMM Award participant Ellie explores the challenges and possibilities of building a new home beyond Earth

Explore the beauty of maths in nature, from Fibonacci spirals in sunflowers to the Golden Ratio in DNA, bees, and even human faces!

Discover how physics shapes everyday life, from the laws of reflection and quantum uncertainty to groundbreaking inventions like periscopes and quantum computers.

Discover the complexities of genes with Zachary Ardern in our latest blog. Read the review and watch the video to deepen your understanding of genetics!

Inspired by his sister, Joseph explores the biology and common misconceptions about Down syndrome.

Discover the science of nuclear power, its role in the UK's energy, and the debate over its risks. Learn how reactors work and the future of nuclear energy.

Discover the three types of stress and learn practical tips to manage and reduce stress in your daily life. Read more to take control of stress!

Discover how ultra-processed foods impact your mental health and learn the benefits of whole foods for a better mindset and overall well-being.

Explore the impact of technology and a career in IT through insights from Wayne Fairhurst, CIO of Pilgrims Europe.

Explore Boeing's Starliner journey to the ISS: the challenges, innovations, and dedication behind the mission.

Youth STEMM Award participant Isla explores the severe impacts of Trisomy 18 and the need for greater awareness.

A focus on: Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva, a rare disorder that turns connective tissue into bone.

Dive into the intriguing logic behind desirability in our latest blog post which explores how evolution, hormones, and biology shape our romantic connections.

Dive into the fascinating world of embryonic stem cells, where groundbreaking medical possibilities meet complex ethical debates.

Looking for tips and advice for completing your Youth STEMM Award? Check out our interview with Bronze Award holder Gemma Ridgeway

Discover how East Norfolk Sixth Form College's student-led Wilding project is leading the way in enhancing biodiversity.

Aaron cracks the code of 3D game magic, showing it's maths, not just coding, that brings a game to life. A must-read for aspiring game developers!

Discover the unsung hero of our bodies: the big toe! Written by 15-year-old Juliet, this blog unveils its crucial role in balance, movement, and our daily lives.

Find out how a workshop that fused science and creativity sparked an understanding that a career in science can harmoniously coexist with our creative natures.

Read on to discover the secret behind those captivating puppy dog eyes and how thousands of years of friendship have shaped the way we fall head over heels for our furry friends!

Journey through the cosmic enigma: Exploring black holes, white holes, and the bending of space and time, with Youth STEMM Award participant, Bella.

Bronze Award participant Chloe has been finding out about a rare genetic disease identified at birth.

Explore the mysterious world of slime moulds and delve into their unique life cycles and surprising beauty in woodlands. A fascinating read for nature lovers!

Youth STEMM Participant Samantha has been researching the stats about eating disorders and shares her thoughts on the role played by mainstream and social media.

Are their limits to what a Chimp can learn? Anya has been looking back at a famous experiment to find out.

Earlier this summer Armita got selected to take part in the Year 10 Science Camp at the John Innes Centre.  Read on to find out how she got on!

Its a fact that many people think they know, but how many of us understand why cows have four stomachs? Read on to find out!

Meet Riccardo and his siblings and hear how they got on working towards Gold!

Read about Saumya's experiences on the JIC Science Camp in the summer of 2022, and find out how you can apply to take part.

Read on to find out more about the life cycle of the stars from Bronze participant Isabella, including how some turn into black holes.

One of our Bronze Award participants, Sophie, gives her views on the differences between Primary and Secondary science. Perfect timing for anyone moving into Year 7 this September!

Please read on to find our FAQs for Youth STEMM Award participants... Registering for Youth STEMM Award as an independent participant Q: How do I register for Youth STEMM Award? Pl…

Please read on to find our FAQs for Coordinators...   Registering for Youth STEMM Award Q: How do I register for Youth STEMM Award? Please drop us an email on hq@ysawards.co.u…

In this overview Maryam takes as through some of the key observations she made when producing a research report on ethnic minorities in STEMM for her Youth STEMM Award

A review of an intriguing talk about the reality of criminal investigation at the recent Norwich Science Festival.

Jiya explores the world of dentistry through a virtual work experience

An amazing blog that shows you how to build your very own microscope!

With COP26 nearly here Youth STEMM Award have teamed up with the Food and Farming Discovery Trust and the SAW Trust to create a new series of workshops for teens.

Read all about the importance of these vital ecosystems.

Evelyn explains how teaching someone something new can help us learn more about the wonderful world of STEMM at the same time.

Tanisha, one of our Bronze participants explores the creative side of STEMM - volunteering at an RSPB nature reserve and writing about her experiences

Faye, one of our independent YSA participants explores the strange world of sleep paralysis, and tells us what to look out for!

Sama, a YSA Gold participant explores the potential and threat of an increasing reliance and use of AI.

Read our recent interview with science engagement and conservation Masters student about her winding path into a STEMM career.

As part of our blog series interviewing STEMM professionals, we spoke to Sam Rowe, science communicator and an advocate of equality for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Independent YSA participant Kyran wants to be a paleoanthropologist, who better to ask for advice than Professor Ben Garrod!

Independent YSA participant Nick has been telling us about how volunteering during the first lockdown led him to develop a new digital platform to support the elderly

Find out about the amazing opportunity one of our Bronze Award participants had to explore their dream career in the clouds.

One of our YSA participants recently took part in a competition exploring BAME discrimination in the NHS.

One of our YSA participants recently won a competition exploring possible discrimination against BAME individuals in the NHS. Read their winning acceptance speech below.   Goo…

Find out more about this unique route into Architecture from Robert Atkins, apprentice architect at Cannon Clarke Architects

We spoke to another one of our brilliant YSA alumni, Sienna Castellon, about her YSA experience, what she learnt from it, and what she's up to now! Read on to find out more.

If you've ever wondered what velcro looks like up close, what feathers and a spider's backside have in common, or why Dandelions are the rebels of the plant world read on!

Read on for some notes of hope and inspiration from our patron Mark Thompson, as well as further details about his upcoming 24 hour space lecture.

We spoke to one of our original pilot participants Gemma Ridgway about her YSA experience, what she learnt from it, and what she's up to now! Read on to find out more.

This blog is made up of two articles written by an independent YSA participant who has been exploring the world of dentistry, including a focus on the impact of CV-19.

One of our brilliant patrons, Lizzie Daly, tells us all about why she is so pleased it is #YearoftheSea in her home patch of Wales, and how she will be celebrating!

Year 12 student Costanza blogs about her visit to a prep school and inspiring young girls into science for International Women's Day

Find out about the brilliant Young Makers' Tech Club from one of our Youth STEMM Award participants. Learn more about what goes on, and think about getting involved yourself!

Find out more about an amazing work experience week at the UK Astronomy Technology Centre.

One of our Bronze YSA participants, George, recently interviewed a sound engineer - read on to find out more

Danielle George, one of our YSA patrons explores whether a robot really can replace Ed Sheeran...

A group of CNS students experienced a day of talks at the University of East Anglia encouraging them to consider careers in medicine - Shruthi tells us more.

Christy describes how she and other students from Smithdon High have been inspiring the next generation during the recent British Science Week.

As part of my Youth STEMM Award experience I was able to attend the Women of the Future Conference which took place at the John Innes Centre. There were many different stands you c…

While doing the Youth STEMM award I researched careers in medicine and went to a masterclass about how to get into a course in medicine and what it entails. The person talking to u…

After recently deciding to take part in the Gold Youth STEMM Award, we volunteered to assist on a stand for the Norwich Science Festival. The stand, which was called ‘Self-made Sha…

Attending the Women of the Future conference with Intel not only inspired me to work in a STEMM related career and make me proud of my gender and feel empowered, it also allowed me…

Faith, a student at East Norfolk Sixth Form, gives an insight into her experience at the scientific research programme 'Mission Discovery', held at Kings College in London.

From the 18th-30th of October, Norwich hosted the Norwich Science Festival; two weeks of exhibitions, guest speakers, activities and lectures based at the Forum and other venues ar…

Kate, East Norfolk Sixth Form student, talks about how attending 'Science Camp' at the John Innes Centre opened her eyes to the complexities of the human eye.