UAlbany Symposium to Showcase More than 250 High School Science Researchers Statewide
ALBANY, N.Y. (March 9, 2021) – The University at Albany is virtually hosting more than 250 high school science research students and teachers from approximately 40 schools across New York State for the 36th Annual Upstate New York Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (Upstate NY JSHS), March 10 and 11.
The Upstate NY JSHS is co-directed by Leonard Behr, University in the High School director of science research in the high school at UAlbany; and Tim Lance, a UAlbany distinguished service professor emeritus, president of the New York State Education and Research Network, and emeritus from NYSERNet.
Students presenting their research are finalists from three regional symposia: including the Capital District, Westchester County and Rochester.
“Upstate NY is arguably the strongest region in this national program,” said Behr and Lance, “We are accustomed to viewing extraordinarily sophisticated research, but this year has presented unusual challenges because of COVID-19. Fittingly, the Mars Rover landed this year. Its name is Perseverance, something every participant has displayed in order to forge ahead with their work and a trait that will serve them well throughout their research careers.”
Symposium Schedule
Samuel Stewart, a graduate of the University’s Science Research in the High School Program who is currently working in clinical research with Ethos Veterinary Health hospitals, will give a keynote address entitled “My Journey in Animal Health and Research,” at the symposium’s awards ceremony, March 10 at 3:30 p.m.
An awards ceremony will follow a full first day of 40 presentations by student speakers. Scientists and industry experts, including representatives from UAlbany, are judging the students’ research projects. A group of student finalists from five categories of science will then compete for top honors before another panel of judges on the second day of the symposium.
Top students will move on to present their research at the 59th National Junior Science and Humanities Symposium, which takes place April 14-17. Those invited to the National JSHS will compete for college scholarships.
UAlbany, the University in the High School Program, the National Science Teachers Association, and the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force are sponsoring the Upstate NY JSHS. Additionally, the Upstate NY JSHS receives support from corporate and organization sponsors including Price Chopper’s Golub Foundation, and Stewart’s Shops.