If you’re passionate about science and want to make your mark at the Junior Science & Humanities Symposium (JSHS), you’re in the right place. This prestigious competition gives students a strong platform to present their research and win a range of awards. A win can open doors to internships and improve your chances of getting into your dream college.
What is JSHS?
The Junior Science and Humanities Symposium is a national science competition held annually in the U.S. It’s sponsored by the Department of Defense (DoD) and administered by the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA).
Although it’s an open competition, students must first compete at their regional symposium for a spot at the national symposium each year. JSHS also offers mentorship, scholarships, and career pathways for students across STEM.
To participate, you must be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States or a U.S. territory. There’s a full list of eligibility rules and other resources to review before entering, which you can find here.
Categories at the Junior Science & Humanities Symposium
At both regional and national symposia, research presentations are organized into eight categories. Categories are assigned after a review of all abstracts and the research area the student indicates. Presenters must state the major category and sub-category of their research on the abstract.
Environmental Science
Environmental science/engineering: bioremediation, ecosystems management, environmental engineering, land resource management, pollution and toxicity, and impact on ecosystems.
Biomedical Sciences
Biomedical medicine, microbiology, cellular/molecular biology, genetics, immunology, pharmacology, virology.
Life & Behavioral Sciences
Developmental biology, plant physiology, population genetics, general biochemistry, microbiology, behavioral sciences.
Medicine & Health
Biochemistry, bioengineering, disease diagnosis and treatment, epidemiology, immunology, neuroscience, physiology, pathology.
Engineering & Technology
Aerospace, aerodynamics, electrical engineering, solar energy, vehicle development, devices, mechanical engineering, robotics.
Mathematics & Computer Science
Probability and statistics, mathematics, computer science (algorithms, databases, networking), computer engineering.
Physical Sciences
Astronomy, theoretical physics, solid-state physics, acoustics, optics, thermodynamics, particle physics, quantum physics, nuclear physics, and the Internet of Things (networks of physical objects embedded with electronics, software, sensors, and connectivity).
Chemistry
Physical chemistry, materials, alternative fuels, organic chemistry, chemical engineering, earth science, geochemistry, and materials science.
Winning tips
1. Understand the JSHS format and criteria
Before diving into your research, get familiar with the JSHS format. It typically runs through regional, state, and national levels, each with specific criteria. Understanding the judging rubric helps you align your project to it.
Focus on:
- Research quality: make your research original and contribute new insight to your field.
- Presentation: prepare a clear, engaging presentation that highlights your findings.
- Scientific rigor: your methodology, data analysis, and conclusions should reflect high standards.
2. Conduct thorough research
Solid research is the backbone of any winning project. Here’s how to do it well:
- Literature review: start with a thorough review of existing studies to understand your topic’s context. Use reputable sources like scientific journals, academic books, and trusted websites.
- Data collection: use reliable, valid methods and gather enough data to support your conclusions. Tools like Google Docs or Sheets help you organize data and research.
- Analysis: analyze your data with appropriate statistical or qualitative methods, and be ready to explain it clearly.
3. Develop a strong hypothesis
A strong hypothesis is clear, testable, and makes a prediction. “Testable” means verifiable or falsifiable, and that you can run the necessary experiments without violating ethical standards. Make sure it’s something you can investigate with the resources you have. This is where preliminary research matters, so your hypothesis is well-informed and grounded in scientific principles.
4. Use the scientific method
The scientific method keeps your work systematic, objective, and reproducible. Applying it rigorously strengthens your project and helps it stand out at JSHS. Here are the steps:
- Ask a question.
- Conduct background research.
- Formulate a hypothesis.
- Design and conduct an experiment.
- Analyze data and draw conclusions.
- Communicate results.
- Reflect and revise.
5. Craft an outstanding presentation
Your presentation is your chance to shine, and a strong one can make a real impact on the judges. Focus on:
- Clarity: use clear, concise language and avoid jargon so a broad audience can follow.
- Visuals: use high-quality, relevant graphs, charts, and images to illustrate your points.
- Practice: rehearse several times to build confidence and ensure smooth delivery.
Watch Rishab Jain’s video on creating a winning science fair poster board.
6. Seek expert guidance
Winning a science fair or symposium is challenging, and expert guidance can make a real difference. ScienceFair.io‘s A-Z Science Fair Mentorship Program offers:
- Personalized mentorship: one-on-one guidance from experienced mentors to refine your research and presentation.
- Resource access: from topic selection to final presentation, mentors provide tailored advice and resources to help your project stand out.
Join ScienceFair.io’s mentorship program and give yourself the best chance at JSHS.
Conclusion
Winning the Junior Science & Humanities Symposium takes dedication, rigorous research, and a strong presentation. Follow these steps, and with support from ScienceFair.io‘s mentorship program, you’ll be well on your way to making a lasting impression.
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