The idea of a superhero armed with fantastic powers and tremendous technology has mesmerized the world for nearly a century. The ability to fly without wings, climb buildings like a gecko or see through walls is popularly interpreted as magical or of no scientific foundation. As we make advances in science and technology, we're discovering that superhero powers may not be that far-fetched.

Through science and technology applications like targeted drug delivery, smart materials, molecular motors, advanced sensors and artificial red blood cells, we may not have to wait until that fateful day when we're bitten by a radioactive spider in order to become superhuman.

NSF and the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) are excited to continue Generation Nano: Superheroes Inspired by Science! While Gen Nano started as a competition based on nanotechnology, they're expanding the competition to all fields of science and engineering.

The competition asks middle and high school students to use scientific research to drive or equip an original superhero. Students can envision science that is grounded in current research but not yet possible, allowing them to learn about the potentials and limitations of real-world science and technology.

A complete entry consists of two components: a written section and either a short comic or a 90-second video. Entrants should introduce their superhero, demonstrate how they incorporated scientific research into their superhero's story and explain how it drives them on their mission. Winners will be chosen from both the middle school and high school categories.

Registration is now open and will run through January 8, 2018.

Click here to learn more and to register.

Skild is proud to power this exciting educational challenge.