The finalists of this year’s The Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Competition have been revealed following a highly competitive selection process that drew hundreds of entries from young innovators from across the UK.
Run annually by EngineeringUK, the competition challenges students to apply science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills to real-world problems. Finalists will now progress to a final round of judging, where they will receive feedback from industry experts before winners are announced in June.
Innovative ideas tackle real-world challenges
This year’s shortlisted projects reflect a strong focus on sustainability, artificial intelligence and health. Among the concepts competing for top honours are biomimicry-inspired aircraft designs, renewable energy generated through everyday movement, an AI-powered recycling bin and a sustainable floating farm.
“It’s brilliant to see so many young people making the connections between their own creativity and how STEM can help solve real-world challenges. The environment, AI and health are project themes that continue to be popular as young people look to engineering and technology to provide solutions.”
– Phillip McShane, Associate Director of Engagement Projects at EngineeringUK.
Industry backing grows
The competition’s flagship awards include The Big Bang UK Young Engineer of the Year, supported for the first time by Thales, alongside The Big Bang UK Young Technologist of the Year, backed by Siemens, and The Big Bang UK Young Scientist of the Year.
A range of special awards are also sponsored by major industry organisations, including Accenture, Energy Systems Catapult, Energy Institute, Institute of Healthcare Engineering and Estate Management, Intellectual Property Office, Network Rail, Stantec and the London International Youth Science Forum 2026.
“At Thales, we’re proud to support The Competition for the first time, helping to nurture the next generation of engineers and innovators. I know myself and my colleagues have loved looking over and providing feedback for some of the submissions – it’s been wonderful to see such exciting ideas. Their ideas today have the power to shape a brighter tomorrow, and we encourage all young people to keep exploring, questioning, and believing in their potential.”
– James Mackay, Head of STEM in the UK at Thales.
Mark Wood, Social Sustainability Lead at Siemens Great Britain & Ireland, added that the finalists should be “proud of what they have already achieved,” highlighting the role of technology in addressing global challenges.
Showcase at The Big Bang Fair
Finalists will present their projects at The Big Bang Fair 2026, taking place from 9–11 June at the NEC in Birmingham, where they will engage with industry professionals, employers and fellow students.
Winners will be announced during an awards ceremony on 9 June, marking the culmination of the competition.
The Big Bang Fair, the UK’s largest free STEM event for young people aged 10 to 13, features hands-on activities, live demonstrations and career panels aimed at inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in science and engineering.
A full list of finalists is available on the Big Bang website.
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