BioTalent Challenge (now Sanofi Biogenius)
The former name of Canada's national student biotech competition
Why It Matters
Unique and highly specific - strong for students targeting biotechnology, life sciences, and pharmaceutical programs. Shows niche passion that very few applicants can demonstrate.
How to Start
The old Sanofi-Aventis BioTalent Challenge no longer runs under that name. The competition continues as Sanofi Biogenius Canada, which is now run through Youth Science Canada's regional STEM fairs and the Canada-Wide Science Fair. See the Sanofi Biogenius entry for how to enter.
Commitment
- Medium commitment: a few hours most weeks during the school year.
- Best starting grade: G10
- Best in G10-G12 when you have enough biology and chemistry background.
Programs It Supports
- Biotechnology
- Life Sciences
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacy
Majors it supports
- Life Sciences – high 80s to low 90s depending on school
- Biochemistry – high 80s
- Pharmacy (PharmD) – high 80s for prerequisites; GPA + interview for PharmD admission
Similar extracurriculars
- Science Olympics – University-hosted team science competitions for high schoolers
- Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) – The top student research competition in Canada
- Robotics Club - VEX or FIRST – Build and compete with real robots
- Environmental Club – Lead sustainability efforts at your school
- Biology / Chemistry Lab Club – Go deeper into science beyond the classroom
- Sanofi Biogenius Canada – Student health and biotech research competition with national finals
- Lab Assistant / Science Prep Room Volunteer – Help science teachers prep labs and organize equipment
- Astronomy & Stargazing Club – Host night-time telescope viewings and planetarium trips
- Anatomy / Dissection Club – Go beyond the curriculum with advanced biological dissections