RMS International Micrograph Competition

The Royal Microscopical Society’s biennial International Micrograph Competition is open for entries with the winners to be announced on 30th June at MICROSCIENCE 2010 – Europe’s leading international conference and exhibition on microscopy.

One lucky winner will receive a diamond this year and other prizes include “must-have” consumer electronics such as cameras and iPods, and cash awards. “This competition goes from strength to strength,” says Dr John Hutchison, a former President of the Society and a regular judge. “We receive entries from all over the world, and the standard is very, very high. It is a great opportunity for microscopists to showcase their skills and their work, and it provides an outlet for those that can capture the breathtaking and engaging beauty of the microscopical world.”

The winning images will appear on the front cover of infocus – the Society’s glossy magazine for members. In addition they will be featured in other high-circulation publications, providing great exposure for the successful entrants.

“This competition goes way beyond ‘coffee table’ pictures and this makes it special,” adds Professor Chris Hawes, another former President of the Society and previous competition judge. “We look for images that have a scientific quality as well as outstanding aesthetic appeal. This provides us with truly eye-catching displays. We are sure that this year will generate another crop of outstanding entries and it is going to be a difficult task to pick the winners.”

The competition has four categories; Light Microscopy - Life, Light Microscopy - Materials, Electron Microscopy - Life, and Electron Microscopy - Materials. The short-listed entries will be on view throughout MICROSCIENCE 2010. The closing date is 14th March 2010. Full details, and terms and conditions of entry are available at www.microscience2010.org.uk