Eighty year ten students from across New South Wales may be a step closer to a career in science after taking part in a three-day Siemens' Science Experience hosted by UTS.

The students toured UTS science laboratories, lecture theatres, performed experiments, met and listened to lecturers and were given a taste of what uni social life in the big smoke is all about. The three-day event also includes excursions and a barbecue on campus.

UTS Dean of Science Professor John Rice said Australia needed a new generation of budding scientists. "Industry, universities and schools are feeling the shortage of people trained in science," Professor Rice said. "Programs like this make a significant contribution towards showing young people what the opportunities are."

"Siemens is a great example of schools, universities and industry collaborating to give students a taste of real science, to show them the exciting stuff, to show them where the careers are, and how science can be a positive force in the world."

The Siemens' Science Experience is coordinated by the Science Schools Foundation based in Victoria and first began in 1990. The Foundation is a voluntary, non-profit organisation that includes representatives of Rotary, Young Scientists of Australia, Siemens, industrialists and educationalists.

The program also provides information about further studies in science, technology and engineering. It highlights the wide range of careers that allow students to pursue their interest and abilities in the sciences.

More than 40,000 secondary students have taken part in visits to university science faculties across Australia since the program commenced.