Young scientists showcase future of STEM at annual Calgary Youth Science Fair

The brightest and most innovative young minds gathered recently at the University of Calgary for the Calgary Youth Science Fair (CYSF), its 13^th year.  

The largest event of its kind in Canada, the CYSF empowers young minds to consider a future in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). 

Local competition ticket to Canada-Wide Science Fair 

More than 800 budding scientists in grades 5-12 showcased their innovative and interactive projects at the Olympic Oval between April 10 and 12. All were vying for the chance to claim a spot at the Canada-wide Science Fair in May at the University of New Brunswick.  

“It’s great to see so many young minds come together to show off their hard work,” says UCalgary Chancellor Jon Cornish.  

The biggest prize at the CYSF, the $2,500 University of Calgary Chancellor and Senate Award, was awarded to the best overall project. Anna McLellan, a grade eight student from Calgary Girls Charter School, was this year’s winner with her project on fruit DNA to solve a hypothetical crime.

UCalgary speaker series and interactive booths 

The CYSF also showcased science-based research and accomplishments at UCalgary. To promote education and entrepreneurial thinking, the Faculty of Science featured a noontime speaker series.  

During the series, Dr. Rajeev Sasidharan Nair, PhD, an associate professor in the Department of Earth, Energy, and Environment, performed a live geology experiment, while Dr. Mayada Shahada, PhD, an assistant professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, showed off her math-magician skills. Students also learned about the tiny details of microbiology, as unpacked by Dr. Maria Bautista Chavarriaga, PhD, a senior research associate in the Department of Biological Sciences. 

Students were also able to explore more of the work being done at the university through the Science Lab — hands-on learning booths led by the Schulich School of Engineering, the Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, and the faculties of Arts and Science. 

A robotic arm, 3D-printed models and Formula SAE race car components were just some of the engaging materials on display.  

Continued efforts to promote science 

This year, the CYSF saw 849 students with 604 projects, and 20 UCalgary sponsored major awards were given to the next generation of leaders in STEM.  

Cornish says events like CYSF represent UCalgary’s continued efforts to promote future science innovators and researchers.     

“The University of Calgary is Canada’s entrepreneurial university, so it’s important that we show students that we’re here to support their future in science,” they say. 

For more information on the CYSF, visit the website.