11 Biology Competitions for Future Scientists

Because of the growing emphasis on biological sciences, aspiring scientists find it necessary to take part in biology competitions. They offer a platform where theoretical knowledge can be applied practically, enhancing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Innovation and creativity are encouraged as participants tackle real-world biological challenges. In addition, collaboration and teamwork are promoted — important skills for any scientific career. Also, here are some important biology competitions and their benefits for future scientists:

• 1. iGEM (International Genetically Engineered Machine) Competition:

  Summary: Teams design and build innovative synthetic biology projects using standardized parts

  Pros:  Access to a global network of experts and educational resources.

  Cons:  Requires a significant time commitment and funding

  Date: October every year

  Cost:  Varies by team size and region.

  Prize:  Medals, trophies, and recognition.

• 2. Regeneron Science Talent Search:

  Summary: High school students present original scientific research.

  Pros: Offers scholarships and mentorship opportunities.

  Cons: Only open to U.S. students.

  Date: Applications due in November every year.

  Cost: Free of charge.

  Prize: Up to $250,000 in scholarships.

• 3. STEAM in AI Multimodal Challenge

  Summary: An AI challenge where students work on problems presented and create presentations for solutions in various topics, including biology.

  Pros: The challenge is designed for middle- and high-school students; 

  Cons: Teams must find their own Mentors.

  Date: 2024 season

  Cost: $60

  Prize: Up to $1,000 prize

• 4. Junior Science and Humanities Symposia (JSHS):

  Summary: High school students present their original research to a panel of judges.

  Pros: Scholarships and networking opportunities.

  Cons: Limited to U.S. students.

  Date: Regional competitions in spring every year.

  Cost: Free of charge.

  Prize: Scholarships and travel awards.

• 5. International Biology Olympiad

  Summary: High school students compete in biology challenges at an international level.

  Pros: Prestigious recognition and medals.

  Cons: Requires qualification through national competitions.

  Date: Usually in July every year.

  Cost: Covered by participating countries.

  Prize: Medals and certificates.

• 6. Biology Olympiad USA (USABO)

  Summary: National competition leading to the International Biology Olympiad.

  Pros: Intensive preparation and training.

  Cons: Only open to U.S. high school students.

  Date: Entrance exams in spring every year.

  Cost: Registration fee required.

  Prize: Advancement to IBO.

• 7. Synbio UK Bioinformatics Competition

  Summary: Focused on solving bioinformatics problems using synthetic biology.

  Pros: Enhances computational biology skills.

  Cons: Requires knowledge of bioinformatics tools.

  Date: Dates vary.

  Cost: Free of charge.

  Prize: Recognition and certificates.

• 8. British Biology Olympiad

  Summary: A national competition for UK students to test their biology knowledge.

  Pros: Recognition and potential to qualify for IBO.

  Cons: Limited to UK students.

  Date: Annual, usually in February.

  Cost: Small entry fee.

  Prize: Medals and certificates.

• 9. Brain Bee Neuroscience Competition:

  Summary: High school students compete in neuroscience-related challenges, focusing on brain structure, function, and disorders.

  Pros: Encourages interest in neuroscience and offers learning resources.

  Cons: Requires extensive preparation in neuroscience topics.

  Date: Annual, with regional and international stages.

  Cost: Free to participate.

  Prize: Trophies and recognition, with the chance to compete internationally.

• 10. RCSB PDB Video Challenge for High School Students

  Summary: Students create short videos to explain molecular biology concepts using protein data.

  Pros: Enhances creativity and scientific communication skills.

  Cons: Requires video production skills and access to resources.

  Date: Annual, usually in the spring.

  Cost: Free to participate.

  Prize: Prizes and recognition for top entries.

• 11. BioGENEius Challenge:

  Summary: High school students showcase research in biotechnology.

  Pros: Connects students with industry leaders.

  Cons: Intense competition at international levels.

  Date: June every year.

  Cost: Varies, scholarships available.

  Prize: Up to $7,500.

Are you interested in combining your love of biology with the cutting-edge field of AI? Join the following cohort to use AI to solve real-world biological problems and gain practical experience.

Apply to Join the STEAM in AI Intensive Summer  Cohort 2024 today!