YOUNG scientists have been invited to display their work at a national exhibition.

Students from The Kings Academy in Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough, will be among only 22 exhibitors in the country who will have work displayed at The Royal Society’s summer exhibition in London.

The Year 12 chemistry students are working with Dr Anna Reynal and Dr Joseph McGinnis from Teesside University, along with their own teacher Dr Brian Casson, on the project called Artificial Photosynthesis – the challenge of mimicking plants.

The students are seeking to create a renewable energy source by recreating the natural process of photosynthesis, a growing area of research that is attracting interest from scientists, governments and companies.

Student Leon Matthews, 17, of Coulby Newham, said: "I'm really enjoying it. It's great to do something outside the syllabus and have the opportunity to do research and practical work in the lab.”

Dr Casson said: “This partnership project is a fantastic opportunity for students to get involved in some real research, doing controlled experiments in the lab, using equipment they haven't used before and extending their knowledge above and beyond the curriculum.

"Now the chance to take part in the summer exhibition is an extremely exciting and prestigious opportunity for our students who will now be planning, designing and presenting an exhibit to tens of thousands of members of the public.”

The Royal Society’s summer exhibition takes place in July.