The fascinating world of International Science Olympiades: How can high school students become both exceptional biologists and excellent competitors?
Department of Biology and Future Scientists Center, Ministry of Education, Israel
Israel has been a part of the world of International Science Olympiads for decades, and has won many medals and awards in mathematics, physics, chemistry and computer sciences. In 2022, the first Israeli delegation for the International Biology Olympiad was trained in Tel Aviv University and has performed exceptionally well, bringing back one silver and two bronze medals in its first-ever participation. The challenge for the Olympic trainers is to turn the young aspiring students into both exceptional biologists and excellent competitors, while kindling their inner passion for biology and giving them a life-changing experience.
Yair Pozniak, a researcher-turned-educator and the head coach of the Israeli team, will discuss the differences between public education and Olympic training and the opportunities to raise the next generation of biological researchers.