The Royal Institution (Ri) has joined forces with the Association of British Science Writers (ABSW) to invite entries for a national award to help nurture aspiring science writers from UK state-maintained schools.
Now in its fourth year, the Young Science Writer of the Year Award is designed to get students aged 14-16 thinking and writing about the big questions in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). The Ri and ABSW are seeking engaging, informative essays on scientific topics that matter, with a focus on fostering critical thinking, storytelling and a deeper understanding of how science shapes our world.
Open to any 14 to 16 year-old student from non-selective state-funded schools, the Award is given annually, with essays covering five categories invited:
- Climate & Environment
- AI & Technology
- Engineering the Future
- Healthcare & Life Science
- Maths & Physical Sciences
Katherine Mathieson, Director of the Royal Institution, said: “One of our central aims as a charity is to encourage students to see a future with science, so we are delighted to be partnering with the ABSW again, to offer this valuable opportunity to young writers, now in its fourth year.
“We are looking forward to more of the insightful, thought-provoking submissions that we have enjoyed in previous years and will be delighted to share the winning entries with Ri public audiences.”
The Young Science Writer of the Year is now open for entries, closing at 5pm on Monday 4 March. Essays of up to 800 words on any STEM subject can be submitted – to include analysis, context, and perspective, helping the reader explore and understand the social, ethical, and political implications of scientific advances and the scientific process.
The 2025 award winner will receive £1000 to help with their writing development and a year’s Young Membership from the Ri, as well as benefitting from coaching from a senior science writer as they seek to explore a potential career in science communication. The winning essay will be published on the Ri website, alongside those of the two runners-up.
The Young Science Writer of the Year Award is funded by Alex and Jeff O'Brien, with support from the Ri and the BBC. Submissions can be made via the ABSW website.