The prize fund for the annual Royal Irish Academy/Irish Times biochemistry science writing competition has been increased for the second year in succession, with higher cash awards and a bronze sculpture for the winner.
Undergraduate and graduate students in third-level institutions, both North and South, are invited to participate by writing a newspaper article suitable for the non-scientific reader explaining any new topic in biochemistry. It can cover medical, agricultural or industrial aspects but must be written in non-technical language.
Yamanouchi Ireland Co Ltd has sponsored the £1,100 prize fund, with £800 for first place and £300 for the runner-up. The winner will also receive a John Coen bronze sculpture, and the report will be published in The Irish Times.
Submissions should be typed, double-spaced on A4 paper and not run to more than 2,000 words. Entrants are encouraged to use photographs, graphics or tables to illustrate their work.
While the article may focus on international developments, entrants should make reference to related research being conducted in Ireland, and to commercial sponsorship for the work.
The articles should be relevant to general readers, for example, citing incidence of a disease, diagnosis and treatment if it discusses medical advances.
The closing date for entries is Monday, January 17th, 2000. Five copies of the article should be submitted to: National Committee for Biochemistry, Royal Irish Academy, Academy House, 19 Dawson Street, Dublin 2.
The committee can also forward further details about the competition.