• Question: Can young people become a scientist at the age between 12 and over?

    Asked by fizzy124 to Tom, Dalya, Derek, Sarah, Tim on 19 Jun 2011. This question was also asked by emmagrace.
    • Photo: Tom Crick

      Tom Crick answered on 15 Jun 2011:

      Yes definitely! It is more how you think and view the world rather than a job — think like a scientist!

    • Photo: Tim Millar

      Tim Millar answered on 17 Jun 2011:

      Yes and many do. They can be involved in collecting data ust like I do for a job. They can also come up with great ideas for research and design the experiments to test hypotheses.

    • Photo: Dalya Soond

      Dalya Soond answered on 17 Jun 2011:

      In fact, there have even been experiments performed in science classes that have been published by international science journals. So def you can contribute.

      But mainly I agree with Tom, it’s how you view the world.

    • Photo: Sarah Thomas

      Sarah Thomas answered on 17 Jun 2011:

      Yes! There are a number of ways you can get involved! Have a look at the International Year of Chemistry website, there’s so much on there:

      http://www.chemistry2011.org/

      You can take part in things like the Global water Survey that’s happening this year, ask you teacher about it!

      http://www.chemistry2011.org/participate/activities/show?id=92

    • Photo: Derek McKay-Bukowski

      Derek McKay-Bukowski answered on 19 Jun 2011:

      Absolutely! I think I started submitting my own observations to a professional astronomical observatory when I was about 13 or so. So there’s no reason why a 12-year old, or 11- or 10-year old couldn’t do the same. In fact, you can even get involved in online projects too.

      However, there is nothing to stop you asking questions, coming up with experiments and trying things out for yourself.

      Science is not just a job. It can be a hobby, or just a way of thinking too!

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