STFC Small Awards Scheme chairperson's report 2006 / A

Report by the Chair of the Small Awards Scheme Judging Group

The Science and Society Small Awards Scheme Judging Group met on 25 May 2006 to assess the applications submitted to the 2006A round. In total, 38 Small Award applications were received. The Panel also assessed 3 applications for Science Centre Awards.

Each proposal was initially marked by four judges and was then ranked according to its average score. Funds were then allocated following more detailed discussions by the judges, each application being introduced by its principal assessor. In all, fifteen applications were successful, receiving combined funding of £110,094. The three Science Centres also received funding worth £44,360.

As in previous rounds, the Judging Group regretted that some worthy applications remained unfunded because of the necessarily limited funds available. Demand and quality were again high, so unsuccessful applicants are therefore encouraged to consider applying again in future rounds of the Small Awards Scheme. Feedback on individual proposals can be obtained by telephoning Chris Woolford at STFC (01793 442098).

The judges noted the geographical distribution of previous Awards, the spread of organisations applying, and the number involving particle physics. For future rounds we continue to encourage applications from schools, applications involving Particle Physics and applications piloting projects for events involving discussion and debate about STFC science areas (e.g. ethical, philosophical or funding issues).

The judges were:

• Dr Helen Mason (Chair) - University of Cambridge
  
• Prof Malcolm Coe - University of Southampton
  
• Prof Tim Greenshaw - University of Liverpool
  
• Dr Valerie Jamieson - New Scientist Magazine
  
• Prof Carl Murray - Queen Mary University of London
  
• Ms Helen Reynolds - Gosford Hill School, Kidlington
  
• Mr David Smith - Institute of Physics, Teacher Network Co-ordinator
  
• Mr Gareth James - National Space Centre
  
• Dr Rosalind Mist - SciZmic

Dr Helen Mason
University of Cambridge