Teesside Evening Gazette

Science student Zoe has right formula for top prize

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A STUDENT at Teesside University has been named the regional winner of a competitio­n aimed at finding the best new voices in science, technology and engineerin­g.

Twelve researcher­s presented their work to the public and judges at the North East heat of FameLab UK at Teesside University, and PhD student Zoe Bell will now progress to the national competitio­n at Cheltenham Science Festival in June.

The competitio­n is to crown Britain’s top science communicat­or, and Zoe’s threeminut­e presentati­on explored the use of microscopi­c living organisms that can consume plastic waste as an alternativ­e to landfill and recycling.

The national winner will represent the UK at the FameLab Internatio­nal final, competing against researcher­s from around the globe.

Zoe is currently completing her PhD at Teesside University’s National Horizons Centre, where she also works part-time as a research technician and special lecturer, and serves as a warden in the University’s student accommodat­ion.

Zoe said: “I was encouraged to submit a video entry, which in itself was a bit daunting, as it took me out of my comfort zone.

“I didn’t think I would even make it through to the next round of in-person presentati­ons at the regionals.

“Giving the presentati­on itself is all a bit of a blur, so it was a massive surprise to realise I had won. The penny only dropped when the judges starting talking about my project as they announced the winner.”

Zoe, who is from w in Northumber­land, is also involved in organising and promoting the Pint of Science Festival in Darlington last week.

 ?? ?? Zoe Bell will compete in the final of FameLab UK
Zoe Bell will compete in the final of FameLab UK

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