Famelab
Could you be the world’s best science communicator?
Application deadline Monday 5 January 2025.
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
To participate in FameLab UK through the University of Liverpool, follow these steps:
- Apply online before 5th Jan - complete the online application form on the FameLab website when applications open in October 2024.
- Regional hub training 6th Feb - if successful, you'll be contacted to receive training by University of Liverpool, our designated North West Regional Hub.
- Entry 4th Mar - deliver your talk in person or submit a video entry to the North West Hub showcasing your scientific communication skills.
- Regional Final - successful participants participate in a regional final at the end of March.
- National training - UK National Finalists Masterclass Weekend 2 – 3 May 2025.
- UK national final - UK National Final: Friday 6 June 2025.
- 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.
Apply now
Don't miss the opportunity to be part of FameLab 2025.
Apply on the FameLab website and join us in promoting excellent science communication. The University of Liverpool is proud to be part of the North West Regional Hub and we look forward to supporting our talented researchers on this incredible journey.
For more information, please email the Faculty Public Engagement team on HLSEngagement@liverpool.ac.uk.
2024 Famelab Final
Bethany Facer competed at the Famelab National Final at Cheltenham Science Festival 2024. Read about her experience here.