USA:

2014 Geothermal Student Competition is Launched

The U.S. Department Energy’s Geothermal Technologies Program and Oak Ridge Institute for Science Education are pleased to announce the 2014 Geothermal Student Competition.

The Challenge: This year’s Competition focuses on a non-technical barrier to geothermal development: public communications. Students are asked to develop a cutting-edge geothermal communications tool that integrates accurate, technical information with a graphical visualization info graphic. Students will also create an outreach plan to disseminate the infographic to local middle and high schools.

Who Should Apply? Teams may consist of undergraduates and/or graduate students. High school seniors are encouraged to apply.

Where do I Apply? The Competition application, guidelines, and further details can all be found on the Competition website:  http://orise.orau.gov/geothermal

Semi-Finalist Awards: The five most compelling and competitive applications will receive a total award of $2,500, where $2,000 is expected to be used as project development funds (stipend) and $500 is to develop an outreach presentation for middle and high school students.

Key Dates:

• Feb. 21: Application page opens 
• March 25: Kick-off Call with prospective Student Teams
• April 5: Round 1 deliverables due: Project plan, Communications and Education Strategy, and Infographic mock-up due
• NLT April 16: Five finalists are notified and invited to submit full application packages
• June 14: Final packets due
• NLT June 27: First, second, and third place teams are notified
• September 28-October 1: GRC Annual Meeting: Five finalists attend the GRC Annual Meeting in Portland and winners are announced. Additionally, GRC attendees will have the opportunity to vote for a “People’s Choice Award,” the winner of which will be announced at the GRC Annual Meeting’s conclusion.

For more information please contact Dr. Desmond Stubbs, Program Manager by Email: Desmond.Stubbs@orau.org