Children’s Research Fund Program Returns to Inspire Young Scientists
The Children’s Research Fund Program is set to return, aiming to encourage secondary and higher secondary students in Bangladesh to engage in scientific research. Organized jointly by the Bangladesh Association for the Advancement of Science (SPSB) and the Maksudul Alam Laboratory (MASLAB), this initiative will provide students from grades 6 to 12 with the necessary support to carry out their research projects.
In 2024, students studying in grades 6 to 12 or equivalent levels in Bangladesh will be eligible to apply for the fund. Applications must be submitted online https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSee3rkvo4inkC_kqpLLYNjlOQUlDdwNmUlgk7-DRyMktleMvw/viewform by December 31, along with a research concept paper. Students will be categorized into three groups based on their grades: 6–8, 9–10, and 11–12.
To apply, students must first submit a one- or two-page concept paper outlining their proposed research topic. The concept paper should include the title, research topic, methodology, and expected impact of the project. Proposals can be submitted individually or in pairs, but team members must belong to the same grade category. Each submission must include the names of the team members, their school/college, and the name of a mentor.
The concept paper should clearly state the objective, methodology, expected outcomes, and potential impact of the project. Accepted applicants will receive the required tools, training, and financial assistance to carry out their research. Submissions can focus on topics such as physical sciences, life sciences, technology and robotics, environment and climate change, social sciences, agriculture, and education.
Once a concept paper is accepted, students will need to prepare a detailed research proposal that includes estimated costs. The proposal must outline what will be done, how it will be done, expected outcomes, and the project's impact. It should also specify the required equipment, lab access, or training, along with a budget breakdown. A recommendation letter from the mentor mentioned in the concept paper must be included.
Students whose concept papers are rejected will have the opportunity to submit a revised version. Research projects must be completed within one to three months, along with a final report detailing the outcomes. Accepted applicants will also receive training through online workshops on how to write a comprehensive research proposal.
An expert committee will evaluate the applications, and results will be announced on the program's website two weeks after the submission of research proposals. Selected students will receive funding to procure equipment, attend workshops, and meet other research-related expenses. They will be required to follow SPSB’s guidelines and share their research outcomes with the organization.
The organizers believe that this program will foster creative thinking and innovation among future scientists, providing them with a unique opportunity to explore their potential.
