Introduction to the contest
The Mammoth International Contest on Omics Sciences (MICOS), is an international event jointly initiated by BGI·Research,and other organizations. It targets multidisciplinary talents from universities, research institutes, enterprises, and other institutions, aiming to deeply focus on new dynamics, trends, and technologies in the development of the life science industry, and to promote innovation in the field of life sciences. Previously, the MICOS has successfully hosted four innovation competitions focusing on research and industry hotspots in the life science field. The 2025 Mammoth International Contest on Omics Sciences - Youth Scientist Track (referred to as 2025 MICOS-Youth) officially launch on May 22th.
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, United Nations-related international cooperation and public welfare organizations, and other associated institutions.
BGI·Research, Jinze Charitable Foundation
BGI BIOVERSE, China National Genebank
Guangdong Science & Technology Infrastructure Center, Guangdong Provincial Genomics Data Center, United Nations Sustainable Development Goals International Alliance for Youth Science Education, Global Alliance of Future Scientists
Red Button Cultural & Educational Development Fund, China Next Generation Education Foundation, BenYuan Special Fund, China Arts Festival Foundation
IEEA
This competition is arranged with two tracks: the “Youth Scientist Track” and the “Future Scientist Track”.
The competition will focus on designing projects around three directions: biodiversity exploration, rare and invasive species surveys, environmental pollution and ecological protection. Participants are required to complete a project proposal, conduct eDNA full-process testing (including field expeditions, experimental operations, and data analysis), and submit a formal research report followed by an on-site defense.
Focusing on single-cell omics and large-scale model technologies, we explore the cutting-edge mysteries of life sciences. Competing projects will advance progress in precision medicine (SDG 3) and agricultural innovation (SDG 2), contributing intellectual solutions to critical global challenges in human health and food security.
Competition registration and submission of project proposals;
Preliminary round submission/ Registration deadline: July 5th, 23:59 (UTC+8);
The top 1,000 enter the intermediary round.
Participants complete on-site assembly and form teams;
Collaborate as a team to conduct local ecological environment research, field expeditions, sample
collection, eDNA testing experimental procedures, and foundational data analysis learning.
On-site assembly point: Beijing, Qingdao, Shenzhen, Sanya, Hangzhou, Wuhan.
Data production, analysis, and interpretation, online Q&A and guidance, database upload, and
submission of research reports;
Intermediary round submission deadline: September 25th, 23:59 (UTC+8).
The top 60 enter the final round.
Submission of the final formal paper and defense PPT.
Formal paper submission deadline: October 18th, 23:59 (UTC+8);
Defense PPT submission deadline: October 20th, 23:59 (UTC+8).
Organize final roadshow and award presentation.
Note: If the above time changes, the latest official announcement shall prevail.
Awards | Award Description |
---|---|
Research Achievements |
• Internship opportunities at international research institutions • Fast-track publication for academic papers • Permanent archival and display of data contributions |
Public Service Honors |
• Officially certified recognition by UN-affiliated public welfare organizations • Eligibility to participate in global summits • Incubation support for public benefit projects |
Personal Development |
• Eligibility for inclusion in elite talent databases • Opportunities to present on international academic platforms • Access to science communication resources |
School Honors |
• Designation as a UN Sustainable Development Demonstration School • Accreditation as a Science Education Base |
Stay tuned