The widely-anticipated QUT Vice-Chancellor's STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) camp is now open for Queensland's smartest Year 11 students to apply.
The free camp will be home for 160 of the state's top performing students in science and maths subjects.
The event takes place at QUT's acclaimed STEM facilities at the Science and Engineering Centre, including The Cube - one of the world's largest digital interactive learning and display spaces.
This year's camp features top QUT scientists and some of their latest ground-breaking research.
QUT STEM Teacher in Residence Anne Brant said the camp was unique in providing high-achieving students, regardless of their school or location, an opportunity to spend time with leading researchers and academics.
"STEM camp gives students an insight into ground-breaking research to appreciate how STEM skills can provide them with the knowledge and problem-solving skills to be the leaders and shapers of the future," Mrs Brant said.
Associate Professor Mia Woodruff, head of QUT's Institute for Health and Biomedical Innovation's Biomaterials and Tissue Morphology Group, will be on hand to mentor the students during the camp.
Her work in biofabrication technology is creating customised, cost-effective implants for patients who have lost body tissue.
"Where else would students get to become a part of the research that is revolutionising modern medicine?" Mrs Brant said.
Students will also work in the Institute for Future Environments alongside Professor Sagadevan Mundree, Deputy Director of QUT's Centre for Tropical Crops and Biocommodities.
They will work on a project to look at developing crops for the future, analysing the effect of drought and salinity on rice as well as food security in the face of climate change.
Students are eligible to apply if they have achieved Very High Achievement marks for at least one subject including: physics, chemistry, earth and environment or biology, mathematics B or C, Engineering Technology and Computer Science and have turned 15 by September 2015.
Anne Brant has been named a "Science Champion" by the Queensland Government in recognition of the STEM camp program.
She also helped conceive Chem World, a virtual chemistry display at The Cube that will be at the fingertips of students during the STEM camp.
Applications close Monday 25 May, 2015.
Media contact: Debra Nowland, QUT media officer, 07 3138 1150 (Mon, Wed & Thurs) or media@qut.edu.au (Mon-Fri)
