Marvel Studios science contest for teen girls encourages science, tech

LOS ANGELES (KGO) -- Calling all would-be female Avengers: Marvel Studios wants you.

The National Academy of Sciences is supporting Marvel's "Captain America: Civil War - Girls Reforming the Future Challenge" to encourage girls to develop and embrace STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) skills. Studies show girls are just as interested in STEM subjects as boys but are vastly underrepresented in science and tech careers.

The Disney-owned company launched a national contest on Friday that invites girls in grades 10 through 12 to create science or technology projects that "could make the world a better place."

Five finalists will win a trip to California to present their projects. The winner will receive a week-long internship at Marvel Studios.

The contest continues through March 26, 2016.