Breakthrough Junior Challenge

What Is the Breakthrough Junior Challenge?

For the Junior Challenge, students worldwide create a short, engaging video explaining a complex concept in physics, mathematics, or life sciences, aiming to make it accessible and interesting; entries are judged on clarity, creativity, and effectiveness, with winners receiving scholarships and global recognition.

The competition was launched in 2015 by Yuri Milner and his wife, Julia Milner.

Where Is the Breakthrough Junior Challenge Held?

The Challenge is a global video competition conducted entirely online. Students submit videos remotely, and winners are announced online and invited to attend in-person award ceremonies, often in the US.

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About the Breakthrough Junior Challenge: Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientific Communicators

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is an annual global competition that encourages students aged 13 to 18 to creatively explain complex scientific concepts in the life sciences, physics, or mathematics through original videos. Launched in 2015 by philanthropists Yuri and Julia Milner as part of their commitment to the Giving Pledge, the challenge aims to inspire young people to think critically about science and to communicate their ideas effectively.

Organized by the Breakthrough Prize Foundation, the competition is supported by a network of partners, including Khan Academy, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and various scientific and educational institutions. The foundation is renowned for its Breakthrough Prizes, often referred to as the “Oscars of Science,” which honor significant achievements in the fields of life sciences, physics, and mathematics.

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge not only rewards students with substantial scholarships and prizes but also aims to foster a global community of young scientific communicators who are passionate about sharing knowledge and sparking curiosity in others. Through this initiative, the Breakthrough Prize Foundation continues to support and celebrate the next generation of scientific talent.

Key Details

Subjects: Physics, mathematics, life sciences (science communication)

How to Enter: Create and submit a short video explaining a complex scientific concept.

Age Range: Students aged 13–18 worldwide

Competition Format: Submit a 1–3 minute video explaining a complex scientific concept in physics, math, or life sciences.

Recognition: Scholarships, teacher prizes, and global media exposure for winners.

Sample Task: Create a video that explains the concept of quantum entanglement in a way anyone can understand.

Our Tips for Succeeding in the Junior Challenge

Choose a scientific concept you are passionate about and find a unique way to explain it visually and engagingly. Plan your video script carefully, focusing on clarity and storytelling. Use visuals, animations, or demonstrations to make complex ideas accessible. Edit your video for quality and pacing, and review the judging criteria before submitting. Share your video for peer feedback and iterate as needed.

FAQs

Is the Breakthrough Junior Challenge Competitive?

The Junior Challenge is very competitive, with global submissions of science videos; winners are chosen for creativity and clarity.

Is the Breakthrough Junior Challenge Advantageous for College Applications?

Yes. It highlights science communication skills, creativity, and the ability to explain complex concepts clearly, especially if you are a finalist or winner.

Is the Breakthrough Junior Challenge Reserved for High School Students?

The Challenge is open to students ages 13–18.