GlaxoSmithKline to launch science career outreach scheme

GlaxoSmithKline is to conduct a nationwide programme in the UK that is designed to encourage interest in science careers among school-age children.

The Scientists in Sport initiative is being conducted during the build-up to the London 2012 Olympic Games and involves a series of free events, lectures and workshops aimed at 11 to 14 year olds.

Conducted in association with King's College London and other academic partners, the programme of events will be delivered by GlaxoSmithKline scientists and educational professionals and will showcase the role played by science in sporting events.

It is hoped that the scheme will encourage young people to take their scientific studies further and consider careers in economically important fields such as pharmaceutical research.

Malcolm Skingle, director of academic liaison at GlaxoSmithKline, said: "This should help deliver the science graduates who can drive forward the UK's science base and provide potential recruits for academia and research-based organisations."

This comes after the company announced last month that it will be offering to reimburse graduate recruits on the full cost of their tuition fees from September 2012 onwards.