The 2024 cohort of Young Tassie Scientists (YTS) have set off on a journey to entertain schools and public audiences with a variety of seafaring, space-aged, and even stinky science presentations.
The award-winning science outreach program has run continuously since 2002, providing enough time for primary-aged audiences to join YTS ranks as presenting scientists themselves.
YTS coordinator Rhiannon Terry said this year's program features 38 volunteers who will visit more than 100 schools across Tasmania, including King and Flinders islands.
"YTS has a history of inspiring young Tasmanians to pursue a future in the sciences – it's not unusual for us to hear from upcoming researchers who saw YTS as children," Dr Terry said.
"We are proud of our program's legacy and are pulling out all the stops to reach as many Tasmanians – young and old – as possible during this year's National Science Week."
With STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) graduates in Australia making up only 25 per cent of the entire graduate cohort, and declining participation in STEM subjects in Tasmanian schools, the YTS roadshow aims to inspire students to imagine a future in STEM.
University of Tasmania Acting Executive Dean of the College of Sciences and Engineering, Dr Angela Castles, highlighted its importance in inspiring the next generation.
"Seeing the excitement and wonder on the faces of young Tasmanians as they engage with our scientists is a powerful reminder of why the Young Tassie Scientists program is so important," Dr Castles said.
"By providing hands-on experiences and real-world insights, we are not just teaching science—we are building a community of future scientists who will drive progress and change."
