The University is helping in a national competition to inspire students to become sport and exercise researchers of the future.

The competition, linked to the 2012 London Olympics, is inviting 16-17-year-olds to investigate an area of sports physiology that interests them and present their findings to sports scientists. For many sixth-form students, this will be their first opportunity to conduct their own research, which could influence the athletes of tomorrow.

Sport and exercise science expert Dr Valerie Gladwell, from the University who has helped formulate the competition, said: “The research project doesn’t just have to be about high-performance athletes, but should explore the fascinating effect exercise has on the body.”

 ‘The Science of Sport: How to Win Gold’ is the largest competition ever run by the Physiological Society and is open to all students undertaking A-levels or BTEC in Biology or PE.

The scheme will not only give students a unique opportunity to direct their own investigation and work with their friends but also gain invaluable experience for the next step in their career path. The projects will allow students to work towards a Silver Crest Award, which is recognised by Universities on UCAS applications.

“This is a really great chance for students to develop their studies in a totally different way and get the opportunity to explore a hands-on topic that really excites them and carry out a research project as if they were at University. Leading sports and exercise scientists throughout the UK will also be on hand to mentor the students,” added Dr Gladwell.

Full details about the competition can be found at www.understanding-life.org/competitions/science-sport-how-win-gold

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Note to Editors
To interview Dr Valerie Gladwell, please call the University of Essex Communications Office on 01206 872400 or e-mail comms@essex.ac.uk