OIST Science Challenge 2020

Workshop

OIST Science Challenge workshop will be providing participants with a unique opportunity to extend their scientific education and experience research. We also offer valuable information and tips to help them prepare for a doctoral program. Through a series of activities with faculty, postdocs, as well as with PhD students, the participants will learn about research conducted at OIST, and skills needed to survive and enjoy a PhD life. At the end of the workshop, participants will be asked to present a submitted slide presentation on the theme "Transcending Borders" in light of their experience throughout the week. The presentation will be shared with the OIST community.

Airfare, travel insurance, accommodation, and meals during the workshop will be provided by OIST.

Theme

"Transcending Borders"

This year's theme is "Transcending Borders". The year 2020 marks a big year for Japan, as Tokyo hosts the Olympic games. People around the world come together to celebrate athletic competitions, overcoming various obstacles and differences such as nationality, race, gender, religion, etc.

Echoing to this core value of the Olympics, we would like to hear how you challenge yourself to go beyond barriers that exist in the world of science. What are your struggles as a young scientist (ex: language, discipline, independency, etc.)? What are the borders you'd like to tear down, so you can accomplish your goal in research? This workshop will be a chance to reflect on why you are drawn to science, and how you plan to capitalize on that motivation to make your future endeavors a success. 

Date & Venue

Date: March 21st (Sat) - 28th (Sat), 2020
Venue: Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST)

Application Deadline: December 31st, 2019

Eligibility

  • Bachelor or master students in STEM majors
  • Able to take part in the OIST Science Challenge 2020 in full

Application Documents

  • Slide Presentation - on the theme "Transcending Borders" (no more than 6 slides)
  • Statement (200 words in English) - describe reasons why you wish to apply for the workshop, and upload it on the last page of the slide presentation (see sample).
  • Save (as PDF preferred) and submit your presentation under 30MB.

Selection

Application materials will be carefully reviewed based on the following criteria.

  • Passion and curiosity for Science
  • Creativity
  • Clarity

From submitted applications, about 30 candidates will be selected and invited to the workshop. During the final slide presentation of those candidates, the following criteria will also be considered:

  • Engagement with the audience
  • Respect of time constraints

Contact

E-mail: gradschool.event@oist.jp (OIST External Engagement Section)

*Please beware that the office will be closed from December 28th until January 3rd, due to Japanese national holidays. We will only respond to inquiries after coming back to the office.