Washington, D.C. —  April 23, 2015 — More than 200 high school students will gather to share their Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) research findings and contend for undergraduate scholarships at one of the nation’s most prestigious science fairs, the National Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS). The 53rd National JSHS, a culmination of the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force’s annual STEM competition, is held April 29 – May 2 in Hunt Valley, Maryland.

The students are aspiring STEM leaders performing significant research that will impact every aspect of life. Topics range from research on alternative fuels, solving problems for learning-disabled siblings, and researching molecular and cellular interaction of cancer. Students are competing for recognition for their independent research accomplishments as well as a share of $375,000 in total scholarships. It’s a highly competitive process: students first presented original scientific research papers to a panel of practicing STEM professionals at regional symposia. Three winners at each of the 46 regional events received a scholarship and an invitation to participate in the National JSHS.

Students will present their research papers and posters to a team of national judges, individuals who are actively engaged in research and development at Department of Defense (DoD) and university

laboratories. Three winners in each category will earn additional scholarships ranging from $4,000 -$12,000. Competition categories include Environmental Science, Life Sciences, Medicine and Health/Behavioral Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Mathematics/Computer Science, Physical Sciences, and Chemistry.

“These students are an inspiration,” said Mary Miller, the official host of the 53rd National JSHS and them Deputy Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Army for Research and Technology. “Their drive to ask questions, to let their minds go beyond the accepted answers and willingness to challenge ideas when all around them just want to agree is a testament to the youth of America and our bright future. They understand that research is about asking questions and questioning the answers. It is looking at how things are done now and wondering if there is another or even better way. Every student here, along with many that didn’t make it this far in the competition, has made a difference in the world they will live in – the world we live in. They remind us that there is so much left to learn, so much left to explore and discover.”

The JSHS is a Tri-Service program sponsored and organized by the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force and administered by the Academy of Applied Science, a non-profit educational organization. The U.S. Army is spearheading the fifty-third year of JSHS. Through the U.S. Army Educational Outreach Program, it offers other STEM enrichment activities, competitions and apprenticeships designed to engage students and teachers in STEM.

At the National JSHS, research-oriented students will learn about opportunities in STEM within the DoD, academia, industry and government. They’ll hear from a Hand and Upper Extremity Reconstructive Surgeon at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, a Colonel who manages the Air Force’s basic research investments and from the Executive Director at a Graduate School of Oceanography.

They’ll learn about additional DoD research areas and investments during a Reverse Science Fair and tours of several DoD research laboratories. “With the JSHS experience, students will be exposed to various STEM career opportunities and understand how their research might one day be applied,” said Miller. “The collaboration of the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and our academic partners provides some of the brightest STEM students in the country with an opportunity to meet others with similar interests and a chance to consider real-world application of their interests. It benefits the students and impacts the future of our nation.”

Recognizing the role that teachers and mentors play in the success of the students, JSHS also awards $500 to one teacher at each of the 46 regional symposia, honoring the teacher and school’s contributions to advancing student participation in research.

Winners of the 53rd  Annual National Junior Science & Humanities Symposium will be announced on May 2, 2015. National JSHS updates and announcements can be found on Twitter at the hashtag #JSHS15

About JSHS

The JSHS is a tri-service program funded by the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force that encourages high school students to conduct original research in STEM. Sponsors include: Office of the Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Army (Acquisition, Logistics & Technology); Office of Naval Research, Arlington, VA; and Air Force Office of Scientific Research, Washington, DC, in cooperation with higher education. The National JSHS Program is administered by the Academy of Applied Science, a non-profit educational organization located in Concord, New Hampshire. Details on the JSHS Regional and National events are available at http://www.jshs.org/.

About AEOP

The U.S. Army Educational Outreach Program (AEOP) is comprised of U.S. Army-sponsored research, education, competitions, internships and practical experiences designed to engage and guide students as well as teachers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). From elementary school through graduate school, students of all proficiency levels, interests, ethnic, economic and academic backgrounds are encouraged to participate in real world experiences involving these important disciplines. More information is available at http://www.usaeop.com/ , at the Twitter handle @USAEOP and at www.facebook.com/goAEOP.

About AAS

The Academy of Applied Science (AAS) administers STEM programs where students apply scientific knowledge to life, research and inventions. Its programs spark creativity in young students, encourage the rising generation of teen mathematicians, scientists and engineers with recognition for their efforts, and provide scholarships and apprenticeships for high school students interested in pursuing careers in math, science and technology. Its influence, encouragement and assistance annually reach over 12,000 students nationwide. More information is available at http://www.aas-world.org.

**DISCLAIMER** The JSHS Program is now operated by the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA). Please contact jshs@nsta.org for more information.