Search on for boffins with £10,000 X-factor

The search is on for 21st century faces of science, engineering and maths in Rochdale.

Organisers of NESTA FameLab 2009 are calling for people currently working in science, and living and working in Rochdale, to attend regional auditions at The Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester, on Saturday (4 April).

They want charismatic scientific minds to demonstrate how, by sharing their expert knowledge in an innovative and entertaining way, they can excite the public imagination, engage more young people and allow them to see the world from a new perspective. Entrants have three minutes to pitch to a panel of high- profile science, media and communications professionals.

Those that make it through will get the chance to take part in the national final at The Times Cheltenham Science Festival in June and win £10,000.

Dr Mark Lythgoe, festival director, said: “Science is the key to solving some of the biggest issues facing society today, including climate change, obesity, aids and renewable energies.

“Not only are we searching for charismatic new faces and voices of UK science, engineering and mathematics who can help to inform and excite the public about the day-to-day relevance of science, but we are also looking for passionate role-models who can inspire the next generation of worldwide change-makers.”

To enter go to www.famelab.org