The Society of Biology is running two competitions for young people in a bid to encourage an interest in biology beyond the school curriculum and to stimulate curiosity about the natural world.

Biology Challenge is open to Year 9 and 10 pupils in England and Wales, Year 10 and 11 pupils in Northern Ireland, and S2 and S3 pupils in Scotland. Students must complete two online papers. The entry fee is pound;25. Registration is open until 31 January.

For older biologists, the Biology Olympiad is open to all post-16 students in the UK. The objective is to stimulate further interest in biology among gifted students. The first round consists of an online multiple-choice test. Winning could mean a trip to Singapore. Register until 17 January 2012.

Find out more about both competitions at www.societyofbiology.org.