I’m a Scientist, Get me out of here is an online STEM engagement activity for school students.
By taking part you:
- develop communication skills
- gain a fresh perspective on your work
- find out what young people think about science
Everything happens online. Take part from the office or at home, at times that suit your schedule.
Read how taking part in I’m a Scientist benefited these scientists ❯
The format
You create a profile, answer students’ questions, and engage directly with classes in live text-only chats.
Students vote for their favourite scientist to win £500 to spend on further public engagement.
“One of the most rewarding, fulfilling and thought-provoking periods I have had in science” Deepak, medical researcher
Live chats with classes
Live chats last 40 minutes. They happen on our text-only messaging platform (no video or audio needed).
Chats are fast paced and fun. We don’t expect you to attend every chat! Sign up to whatever you can fit into your schedule.
Read about the advantages of being text-only ❯
Zones: Groups of scientists and schools
The activity is divided into ‘Zones’. Each Zone typically lasts 4 weeks, with a new group of scientists and school students in each.
A Zone could be a general science-themed, featuring scientists from a broad range of fields. Or, Zones can be themed to a particular area of research, for example, a ‘Medical Research Zone’.
Time needed
The time commitment is flexible. The activity is designed so you can fit taking part around your normal schedule.
Only take part in the live chats that suit your schedule. You can also log in to answer students’ questions at any time.
Read how I’m a Scientist fits into the schedule of a busy scientist ❯
Questions students ask
I’m a Scientist is a student-led activity. This means students can ask anything they like. There could be questions about you, your work, and science in general, from robots to pizza toppings.
All questions and live chats are moderated by our moderation team, who are there to help and support you throughout the activity.
Equipment you need
All you need is a computer or other device with internet access.
Everything is run through a web-browser, you don’t need to download any software.
Prize money
During the activity, students vote for the scientist they think should win £500 for their own public engagement ideas.
The money could be spent on school visits, science fair exhibits, videos or podcasts, blogs, arranging class visits to your lab or office… as long as it’s involving people outside of science, it’s a good idea.
Every Friday during the activity, the ‘Scientist of the Week’ is announced. This is the person who has received the most votes from students. On the final day of the activity, the overall winner who wins the £500 is revealed.
Find out how past winners have spent their money ❯
Who can register?
Anyone in a science-related role is welcome to take part.
You could be working in industry, academia, or the public sector. You could be a technician, an apprentice, or in roles like comms or management.
Take part to show students the wide range of STEM-related careers out there.
It only takes 2 minutes to register.
We’ll let you know if we have a space for you in one of our activities.Questions? Contact support@imascientist.org.uk
