If you like the challenge of blending theory with practice- this is the event for you!
There are three components to this event-
1.A pre-build model (this year was Caspase-3);
2.An on-site model building challenge and
3.An on-site essay/test.
Along the way, learn how to interpret 3-D images of actual proteins and build models just like a researcher. Hopefully with some fun thrown in :) Here is the link to STAR, MIT's 3-d modeling program: http://web.mit.edu/Star/biochem/
To learn more, go to Science Olympiad's resource page for this event:
"Why we care": Here is an example of how learning about DNA and its link to protein structure and function saved one young boy's life (video and article):
http://www.jsonline.com/features/health/111224104.html