Imagine rubbing shoulders with some of the most talented scientific minds in the world today. Physics with Astrophysics student James got the chance to do just that at the Global Young Scientists Summit 2023 in Singapore. We caught up with him to ask about his experiences.
The annual Global Young Scientists Summit (GYSS) is an annual celebration of scientific excellence covering chemistry, physics, medicine, mathematics, engineering, and computer science.
Young scientists from all over the world come together to discuss current research, trends, technological innovation, and new game-changing discoveries with some of the world’s leading scientific professionals.
The summit plays host to Nobel Prize laureates, Fields Medallists, Millennium Technology Prize honourees, and Turing Award winners, all of whom attend to inspire and share their expertise with young scientists.
This year, 21 eminent scientists were invited to speak across 10 plenary lectures and panel sessions, including Nobel Prize winners David MacMillan, Ada Yonath, and Sir Andre Geim.
What was the GYSS conference like?
'The conference itself was held at the university. Each day was packed with plenary lectures, small group sessions, and activities. Every day we took coaches from a hotel in Katong at 7am and finished around 6pm.
'The topics covered ranged from astrophysics and molecular biology to organic chemistry. There were also panel discussions about the importance of science communication in society and the modern world. Furthermore, the postgraduates at the event were given the opportunity to present their work which was very interesting.
'The 2019 Nobel Prize in Physics winner, Dr Didier Queloz, really stood out to me as a speaker. He gave a speech regarding his co-discovery of the exoplanet, 51 Pegasi b, in the constellation of Pegasus. It was the first extra-solar planet established to be orbiting a main-sequence star, i.e. one such as the Sun.
'His discovery, more than two decades ago, opened up an entirely new field in astronomy; as of this year, thousands of similar exoplanets have been discovered, and have even had studies done.
'He also held a small group session, where myself and around 10 other participants talked about the future of space travel, alien and atmospheric life, terraforming, and Dyson-sphere technology.'
Conference highlights
'A highlight of the conference would have to be the trip around the city when we were treated to many things such as visiting the Marina Bay Sands observation deck, which was truly astounding.
'We had a great time seeing the culture - it was also Chinese New Year that weekend - and tasting local food. I definitely had my fair share of fast food which was a mile better than anything in Britain!
'Singapore Changi Airport is also one of the best places I have ever been. I spent most of my time in the JEWEL, which is like a huge indoor forest and one of the most peaceful locations!'
Would you recommend attending a conference like this?
'Absolutely; 100%! It's not just a conference, it's the best week you will ever have, in one of the greatest countries in the world, especially as an undergraduate! There is no chance anyone would ever regret attending something like this.
'For me, it is an experience I will treasure, probably for the rest of my life.'
Interested in finding out more?
Considering a career in science? If James' story has inspired you to shoot for the stars, check out the course overview for his degree. You can also explore our undergraduate degrees by subject area to discover more about studying with us. You could be enrolled in a science degree course with Newcastle University as early as September 2023!
