SMART Mentor Scholarship

Establishment

This scholarship was first established in 2012.

SMART (Science, Maths and Real Technology) is a science communication program from the University of Newcastle's Faculty of Science and Information Technology.

The scholarships are an important part of fulfilling SMART's mission to:

Inspire, inform and involve young people with science, including mathematics engineering and technology

Provide opportunities for university students to learn and practice science communication

Encourage widespread ongoing participation and dialogue relating to science

Mentor scholars will be involved in researching, developing and presenting science shows and workshops, a mini project and/or research project paper, being mentored and mentoring other students, professional development and assisting in the running of the program.

This is a practical scholarship best suited to students looking to gain work experience, professional development and new skills in the fields of science communication and project management.

SMART will provide office space on the Callaghan campus for the scholar and excluding time spent delivering shows in schools, they will be expected to spend approximately 24 hours per week in the office.

Office time will be spent developing new shows and workshops and performing research on successful science engagement particularly in low SES environments. It is our hope that this research may lead onto a research paper and/or Master project. The scholar will also be expected to help with general running of the project including making school bookings and preparing the show equipment.

Shows are primarily held in schools around the footprint of the Uni (Central Coast to Upper Hunter) but we do occasionally do tours further afield and have a regular contract performing for schools in the Northern Territory.

Scholars will be required to undertake at least one subject per semester but may be able to do more than this, particularly if the subjects are flexible/online. This scholarship is not suitable for students who wish to study full time in 2013 as a high level of commitment to the project is required.

We are happy to be flexible around part time work and holidays and we may also be able to offer you hourly paid (~$35) work in addition to your scholarship hours.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for this scholarship you must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled in any undergraduate program at the University of Newcastle which incorporates courses in Science, Engineering, Communication or Education
• Must have a current valid driver's licence
• Must pass NSW Working with Children check

Required Documentation

If this documentation is not provided your application will not be processed.

After you have submitted your application, please print off the cover sheet provided and attach a copy of each piece of required documentation to it before sending in.

A brief written statement explaining why you believe you would be suitable for this scholarship

• A current curriculum vitae (CV) or resume

Benefit

• The scholarship provides the benefit of $12,000, payable in 20 fortnightly installments of $600 for full-time scholars.
• If the scholar has not already completed the course, SMART will agree to pay half cost for the SCIT2100 online course.

Selection

• Selection of the scholar will be on the basis of interest and experience in presenting information to the public. Previous science show/presentation or Science and Engineering Challenge experience, demonstrated organisational, research and communication skills and ability to work independently will be highly regarded.

• Preference will be given to students from the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Faculty of Science and Information Technology, and the Schools of Education and Drama along with experience as a communicator, SMART presenter or Challenge Ambassador.

Contact Details

SCHOLARSHIPS OFFICER