The next generation of researchers will have the chance to show off their scientific skills at a special competition at the University of the Sunshine Coast this afternoon (Thursday 18 August).

The 2016 Science Research Awards, to be held at USC’s Innovation Centre, will see dozens of local high school students present their research projects to judges, who include industry scientists, academics and PhD students.

The judges will assess the students’ ability to communicate their research, including how well they present their projects using posters.

Judges will also be on the lookout for silver-tongued scientists in the Three Minutes to Win It competition, in which students are required to succinctly explain their research projects.

Last year’s winning entry for high school students was a project comparing the distribution of coral at varying depths off Heron Island, while the first-placed primary school project investigated the pH and glucose levels of different types of dog food.

The judging of the Scientific Research Awards will begin at 3pm on Thursday 18 August at USC’s Innovation Centre.

The Three Minutes to Win It contest will begin at 6.30pm.