NC Science and Engineering Fair
Thank you to all who participated on March 21, 2026
Save the date the 39th NCSEF April 3, 2027
Celebrating the Next Generation of Innovators!
Driven by our mission of “Inspiring Innovation in Student Research,” the 38th Annual NC Science and Engineering Fair was a resounding success. On Saturday, March 21st, 477 students representing 381 groundbreaking projects gathered at North Carolina State University for our final judging session. We extend a huge thank you to NC State for providing such an inspiring professional setting for these young scientists.
We also celebrate the 66 students who competed through our Virtual Judging session on March 17th. Your dedication to discovery from afar was truly impressive!
The Road Ahead
Junior Division (Grades 6-8): As the state affiliate for the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge, our 1st and 2nd place winners from all 8 categories have officially been nominated to advance to the next level!
Senior Division (Grades 9-12): As an affiliate of the Regeneron ISEF, we are thrilled to announce that 12 of our Senior Division students are ISEF Finalists! They will travel to Phoenix, AZ, to compete on the international stage from May 10–15, 2026.
Congratulations to everyone we look forward to seeing you in April 2027!
Sincerely,
Dr. Gary Kelley, Chairman NC Science Fair Foundation
Dr. Tom Williams, Director, NC Science and Engineering Fair
Participation in science fair allows for eager learners the opportunity to explore and observe real scientific questions in the world they live in. They are truly engaged when scientific questions, theories, and principles are hands-on inquiries and not just words in a textbook.
Carina D, Parent
Teachers
Learn more about supporting student science and engineering research and how to get students involved in fair competitions.
Students
Science and engineering fairs are fun! Check out the resources for entering a project and showcasing your hard work!
Volunteer
Want to make a difference in the lives of students? We need you! Consider volunteering and be inspired.
