Broadcasting to next-generation scientists
Promoting science to a new generation is a tough challenge when so many other areas and interests are competing for the attention of young people. The EU-funded 'Television magazine 'Genius'' (Genius) project set out to produce a monthly television programme portraying science as relevant and interesting to young people. Having gathered together a group of young researchers from different scientific disciplines, the Genius team filmed portraits for each individual. These were presented to the public, specifically young people, to illustrate that a science career can be combined with a rich and happy private life. This approach was aimed at addressing the fears of young people who often give up on scientific careers. Some feel it is too difficult a subject and also fear that their work will deprive them of a family and social life. The goal was to present young scientists as a group of people whose careers in science do not isolate them from society. The programme also reported on exhibitions, generally focused on educational subjects, to introduce scientific concepts and show that science careers are open to everyone. The magazine programmes were also broadcast on the websites of nine channels (from five EU Member States and one Candidate Country). In addition, they were shown on the site of the European Association of City Televisions (EAC TV). The project was able to demonstrate, particularly through the 10 researcher portraits, that a scientific career is within the reach of many. It showed that, while pursuing intense professional satisfaction in their work, youngsters can still have a happy and fulfilling family life. There can also be room for other interests in their lives besides science. The Genius project team was hopeful that the year-long series will have convinced some hesitant young people to embark on an adventure in scientific studies. It is the project's long-term objective to encourage youngsters to begin their own research and become fully accomplished scientists. This next generation can then participate in the scientific, industrial and economic development of their regions.