Thirty Middle School Students Named Finalists in Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge
News related to:Society for Science · 2 min read
Thirty middle school students from across the United States and Puerto Rico have been named finalists in the 2026 Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge (Thermo Fisher JIC), a prestigious competition aimed at inspiring young scientists and engineers. The finalists were selected from the Top 300 Junior Innovators, who were announced on September 2.
The 30 finalists, representing 17 U.S. states, will participate in Thermo Fisher JIC Finals Week from October 23 to 28 in Washington, D.C. During this week, they will compete for more than $100,000 in awards, including the $25,000 Thermo Fisher Scientific ASCEND (Aspiring Scientists Cultivating Exciting New Discoveries) Award.
The projects of the finalists span a wide range of scientific disciplines, with environmental and earth sciences being the most prevalent category. Other areas of research include chemistry, energy and sustainability, engineering, and microbiology. Among the topics being explored are the impact of sea urchins on kelp forest recovery, the potential of hydrogels in reducing wildfire risk, and innovative treatments for traumatic brain injuries.
Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of the Society for Science, expressed pride in the achievements of the finalists.
Thermo Fisher Scientific's sponsorship of the Junior Innovators Challenge reflects its long-standing commitment to broadening access to STEM education. The company has invested in school-based and community STEM programs for decades and encourages thousands of colleagues to volunteer each year to support education initiatives globally.
Each finalist will receive a $500 cash award and will compete for additional prizes, including the ASCEND Award, the Broadcom Coding with Commitment® Award, the Citadel | Citadel Securities Innovation Award, the DoW STEM Talent Award, and the Lemelson Foundation Award for Invention. The winners in each category of STEM will also receive $3,500 and $2,500, respectively. Additionally, the team that demonstrates the best ability to work together and solve problems through shared decision-making, communication, and scientific and engineering collaboration will receive a $200 gift card to a science supply company.
The Society for Science is dedicated to promoting the understanding and appreciation of science and the vital role it plays in human advancement. Established in 1921, the organization is committed to informing, educating, and inspiring young scientists and engineers.
The finalists' schools will also receive $1,000 each to use toward STEM activities, further supporting the development of these young innovators. The competition is part of the Society for Science's Affiliated Fair Network, which reaches 60,000 students annually. To find a local science fair, interested students can visit the Society for Science's website.