The information session on the Beamline for Schools (BL4S) competition, jointly organized by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) and the German National Accelerator Laboratory (DESY), was held by the Science and Technology Communication Coordination Unit of İstinye University.
As part of the competition, high school students interested in science and engineering—who will shape the future of the scientific world—will learn to think like scientists and gain the necessary knowledge to compete with their peers worldwide. With high motivation, they will prepare their own project proposals.
The event was attended by student groups and teachers from various high schools who wish to design their own experimental proposals to be conducted at CERN and DESY. During the session, Prof. Dr. Serkant Ali Çetin, the national contact person for the competition, answered students' questions.
Prof. Dr. Serkant Ali Çetin on the BL4S Competition and Information Session at İstinye University
Prof. Dr. Serkant Ali Çetin, Coordinator of Science and Technology Communication at İstinye University and National Contact Person for the Beamline for Schools (BL4S) Competition, shared his thoughts on the competition, jointly organized by CERN and DESY, and the information session held at İstinye University:
“Curiosity and excitement at a young age are the most valuable assets. Nurturing and growing these qualities through science and technology is essentially designing the future. As İstinye University, we once again recognize the importance of science and technology communication while engaging with young aspiring scientists. Large experimental infrastructures such as CERN and DESY serve as the breeding grounds for both fundamental research, which aims to advance our understanding of the universe through experimental particle physics, and the technologies of today and the future. Here, we encourage young individuals who have the courage and determination to dive into these scientific waters—this is the best investment in the future.”
The BL4S competition, organized in collaboration with the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) and the German National Accelerator Laboratory (DESY), attracted high school students interested in engineering, physics, and advanced technologies, aiming to take their first steps into the world of science. During the event, students were informed about preparing their own experiment proposals to be conducted at CERN and DESY. Those who attended the detailed competition briefing found an opportunity to strengthen their motivation for teamwork and success.
Comprehensive Particle Physics and Competition Briefing
As part of the Beamline for Schools Information Session, participants were introduced to key concepts in particle physics, while details of the competition and participation processes were thoroughly explained. This full-day event, designed to spark curiosity in science, witnessed high participation, highlighting the enthusiasm and keen interest of young students.
About the Beamline for Schools (BL4S) Competition
The BL4S competition, organized for over a decade by CERN, goes beyond particle physics, fostering the production of broad-spectrum knowledge in science and technology while providing opportunities for researchers. High school teams from around the world compete to conduct their own experiments, and Turkish teams have consistently been among the most engaged participants in this well-established competition. The excitement of testing self-designed projects at CERN and DESY research facilities in Geneva and Hamburg has significantly increased participation rates from Turkey.
In recent years, Turkey has submitted the highest number of proposals globally. This year’s competition hopefuls attended four informative sessions as part of the event. While Prof. Dr. Serkant Ali Çetin led the national briefing, high school students aspiring to conduct their first scientific project at CERN and DESY attended from various prestigious institutions, including:
Kabataş Erkek Lisesi
Beşiktaş Anadolu Lisesi
Gaziosmanpaşa Anadolu Lisesi
Üsküdar American Academy
TED Sakarya College
Vefa High School
Robert College
Private Lüleburgaz Akım College
Private Career Science High School
Samsun Private Bahçeşehir Science and Technology High School
Kartal Burak Bora Anatolian High School
Özdemir Sabancı Anatolian High School
İzmir Science High School
Doğan Cüceloğlu Science High School
Çemberlitaş Anatolian High School
Beyoğlu Anatolian High School
Beykoz Science High School
Aydın Science High School
Ataköy Anatolian High School
Balıkesir Şehit Turgut Solak Science High School
Bahçelievler Birey Anatolian High School
These students gained in-depth knowledge about the competition and are now better equipped to develop their own experimental proposals.
