Young scientists agree rules of operation for academy
Young scientists have approved the operating rules for the recently established World Academy of Young Scientists (WAYS). WAYS was established largely at the instigation of the Hungarian government and the United Nations educational, scientific and cultural organisation (UNESCO). It describes its role as 'a permanent global network for the young scientific community that provides regular input into decision-making on science and technology'. The new statute sees the creation of five discipline-based sections in order to focus the efforts of the members on tackling the issues faced by young scientists. The five sections are: natural sciences; medical and life sciences; engineering and computer sciences; agricultural and environmental sciences; and human and social sciences. It was also agreed to create regional divisions, although no consensus was found on how this could be done. The academy can currently count more than 1,000 scientists under the age of 40 as members. Membership requirements have thus far been limited to age and demonstration of active engagement in research, but plans are afoot to introduce scientific merit as the main criterion in the near future.