Hutchins hosts International Student Science Conference
Over 80 students from 7 countries converged at The Hutchins School over the school holidays to participate in The 9th International Student Science Conference – Science for the 21st Century.
Activities and presentations were conducted at The Hutchins School, The University of Tasmania and other key locations around the city.
Conference Organiser and Hutchins Head of Science Mr Peter Crofts said the event was a great opportunity for students to appreciate scientific challenges from a global perspective. The conference theme, Science for the 21st Century, acknowledged that the science students of today will be faced with problems that will require innovative approaches. How Tasmanian science and technology is addressing some of these 21st Century challenges was be highlighted through lectures on Antarctic science, biotechnology and seaweed, sensor technology and dementia research. There were also excursions to INCAT Shipbuilders and the Mt Pleasant Radiotelescope.
Mr Crofts said the student presentation sessions were an important aspect of the conference.
“Science transcends language and cultural barriers, and to have a group of sharp young minds here in Hobart sharing their insights and ideas – from energy efficiency through to the areas of human health and environmental management and conservation – is very exciting.”
“The students – all 15 to 16 years old – have not shied away from tackling big problems, with topics spanning everything from ‘solving the problem of electromagnetic interference in our daily life’ to ‘the effectiveness of wisteria extracts as an anti-tumour agent.’”
“These students are the scientists of the future and it’s vital to provide opportunities for our local students to engage with others against a global backdrop such as this event provides.”
Visiting students were also treated to uniquely Tasmanian experiences such as a visit to Bonorong Park and a Bruny Island eco-cruise.