UQ Science Ambassador: Mini Scientist Photo Competition

• Review the Rules: Read the terms and conditions (PDF, 126.1 KB) for the 2026 UQ Mini Scientist Photo Competition.
• School Nomination: The Ambassador teacher must submit a nomination for their school by emailing sciamb@uq.edu.au. Once nominated, the Science Ambassador Team will send one Mini Scientist to the Ambassador teacher at the school.
• Entry Preparation: UQ Science Ambassadors will select one high-quality photo of their Mini Scientist in action; and also:
  • Assign the Mini Scientist a Name and Scientific Specialty (e.g. Professor Plankton - Marine Biologist)
  • Create a short, creative caption (max 50 words) explaining what the Mini Scientist is doing in the photo.
  • Include the names of the UQ Science Ambassadors who participated in putting together the entry.
  • UQ Science Ambassadors provide these details to their Ambassador teacher.
• Entry Submission: The Ambassador teacher will then submit the selected photo and accompanying details via the official submission form that will be live on the website by Thursday 4 June.

• Entry limitation: Each school may submit one entry per Science Ambassador School.
• Submission method: All entries must be submitted using the official online submission form.
• Submission period: Entries will be accepted from Thursday 4 June to Wednesday 12 August. Late or misdirected entries will not be considered.
• Photo file requirements: Upload your image in JPG or PNG format, with a maximum file size of 15MB.
• Artwork requirements: Entrants must affirm that they are the sole creators of their artwork. Only original, non-AI generated photos will be accepted. Video entries or QR codes will not be accepted and will lead to disqualification. Stock images or clip art will also lead to disqualification.
• Confirmation: After submission, you will receive an email confirmation.
• Submission process: All entries will be judged by a panel, and the panel reserves the right to withhold awards in any category. Finalists will be selected based on the submitted image and accompanying information.

Scientific creativity

How original and imaginative is the scientific scenario? Judges will assess the uniqueness and thought-provoking nature of the scene, focusing on how creatively the Mini Scientist is portrayed in a science-related setting.

Educational value

Does the entry inspire learning and curiosity about science? Entries should introduce new concepts, spark interest in scientific ideas or real-world applications, and be communicated in an age-appropriate, engaging way.

Caption and communication

How effectively does the caption enhance the photo? The caption should clearly and creatively explain what the Mini Scientist is doing, making the scene fun, engaging, and informative.