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AusGeo News March 2012 Issue No. 105
National Youth Science Forum
More than 60 of Australia's top Year 11 science students visited Geoscience Australia in January as part of the 2012 National Youth Science Forum. During the visits the students attended half-day workshops and participated in a series of activities simulating some of the latest technology and techniques used for the geological storage of carbon dioxide.
The students undertook four key investigations to determine the suitability of proposed sites for geological storage under the guidance of Geoscience Australia scientists. The investigations involved techniques which are critical to make a sound, scientific decision based on the available data. They included: seismic interpretation, well-log interpretation, core analysis, and monitoring using a geographic information system (GIS). The students then gave a short presentation outlining the science and processes used by their chosen group, their use of geoscientific methods and equipment, and their conclusions.
Figure 1. Students checking the properties of core samples, assisted by Anna Paull of Geoscience Australia, during the National Youth Science Forum workshop in January 2012.
The visit introduced students to the geosciences and was intended to encourage an interest in future study and careers in the geosciences. The students also had an opportunity to talk to staff involved in Geoscience Australia's cadetship and graduate programs as well as some of the young scientists in the organisation about various career opportunities.
The National Youth Science Forum is a two-week program held in Canberra in January each year. The program is designed for students moving into Year 12 who wish to follow careers in science, engineering and technology. It offers them an introduction to research and researchers in government and industry organisations
For more information email ausgeomail@ga.gov.au