Famelab

Could you be the world’s best science communicator?

Welcome to FameLab, the world's largest science communication competition and training program.

At the University of Liverpool, we are proud to be part of this global initiative that encourages and enables researchers to communicate their work with the public in engaging and exciting ways.

Whether you are a lecturer, researcher, postgraduate student, or someone applying science in various fields, FameLab provides a platform for you to showcase your passion for science communication.

What is FameLab?

FameLab, created by Cheltenham Festivals in 2005, is a dynamic science communication competition that spans over 30 countries and involves more than 200 local partner organizations. The competition's primary aims are to:

• Encourage and enable science-related researchers to communicate their work with the public in an engaging and exciting way
• Create an active, international community of science-related researchers confident and skilled in communicating their research with the public
• Facilitate an international network of trainers and institutions sharing resources, best practices, and opportunities to support science communication
• Find and support the next generation of Cheltenham Science Festival speakers.

How to get involved - eligibility

FameLab is open to a diverse range of participants, including:

• Lecturers in science, including social sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, or related subjects
• Researchers using existing research or meta-studies
• Individuals applying science in various fields such as patent clerks, statisticians, computer technicians, consultants to industry
• Postgraduate students of science, including social sciences, technology, engineering, or mathematics (over 21)
• Individuals applying science in the armed forces, government bodies, industry, or business.

The competition

Researchers from across the globe gather to compete, with each contestant having three minutes to convey a scientific concept of their choice to a global audience and expert judges. The winner is the speaker who best demonstrates FameLab's 3 C's – Content, Clarity, and Charisma.

Application process

Participation in FameLab UK through the University of Liverpool:

1. Apply online - complete the online application form on the FameLab website when applications open.
2. Regional hub training - if successful, you'll be contacted to receive training by University of Liverpool, our designated North West Regional Hub.
3. Entry - deliver your talk in person or submit a video entry to the North West Hub showcasing your scientific communication skills.
4. Regional Final - successful participants participate in a regional final 
5. National training - UK National Finalists Masterclass Weekend 
6. UK national final - UK National Final
7. International final - the UK winner will represent the UK on the world stage.

Why get involved?

Participating in FameLab offers numerous benefits:

• Enhance your science communication skills
• Join an international community of passionate science communicators
• Showcase your research to a global audience
• Network with professionals in the field
• Represent the University of Liverpool on a national and international stage.

Come along 

Join us at the 2026 FameLab North West Final held in Liverpool at the Lime Street Central Pub, L1 1JQ on Tuesday, Mar 24 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Reserve your spot here  

Read the most recent FameLab blog: Science in the Limelight: My FameLab 2025 Experience as a Nervous Speaker here . 

Don't miss the opportunity to be part of the next FameLab 2027.

Apply on the FameLab website and join us in promoting excellent science communication. For more information or discuss your idea, please email the Faculty Public Engagement team on HLSEngagement@liverpool.ac.uk.