A pitch is a presentation, either formal or informal, that you give when you want or need something from someone. It could be money, expertise, support, time etc.

Scientific experiments need to be replicable, otherwise the credibility of any results you get may become questionable if no one else can demonstrate what you did.

Networking involves talking to other people. In the context of science, this could mean talking to people with different perspectives, ideas and expertise – even if they are not a scientist.

Project management is a structured process to actively plan and implement strategies to manage risks to projects and identify and enhance opportunities.

A scientist is one of the few professions where failure means progress. No one wants their project or experiments to fail, but a large part of science is failing and learning it.

If people cannot understand or find your project, the chances of it being highly successful are decreased.

A scientific presentation is a great way to get exposure for your science because while you are speaking, you and your science are the centre of attention.

The old adage, ‘you’ve got to be in it to win it’ applies to awards in science just as much as it does in any other context.