March 27, 2019

Southern Illinois students to compete in regional science fair at SIU

by Tim Crosby

CARBONDALE, Ill. – Southern Illinois University Carbondale next week will host students from around the region for the annual Illinois Junior Academy of Science Region 8 Science Fair. 

Hundreds to compete

This year, officials expect about 400 junior high and high school students to participate in the event, which is set for Tuesday in the Student Center ballrooms. Judging is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with all projects open to public viewing from 1 to 4 p.m. 

Officials will present awards beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Neckers room 240. 

Multiple, diverse categories

There are 18 project categories, ranging from aerospace to behavioral science, health and zoology. More than 150 SIU faculty and graduate students volunteer their time to act as judges. Many academic departments and campus units also sponsor student and school awards totaling several thousand dollars. Only those registered with IJAS are allowed to compete. There is a $75 to $100 registration fee to become a member of the state organization.

Projects to advance to state competition

Judges will select about 60 projects to advance to the state competition, also held at SIU this year, in early May.