Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge (JIC)
by Society for Science
The nation's premier STEM research competition for middle school students (grades 6-8), organized by Society for Science. Requires prior competition at a local/regional science fair.
About
Students in grades 6-8 are eligible to participate. To enroll, students must first compete and place in the top 10% at a Society for Science-affiliated local or regional science fair. Nominated students then submit an online application for the national competition. Local/regional fairs are typically held from January to March, with the national application deadline for nominated students usually in June. Finalists are invited to Washington, D.C., for a competition week in October 2026. There is no cost to enter this competition, and finalists receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C.
Who's eligible
Students in grades 6-8 who place in the top 10% at a Society for Science-affiliated local or regional science fair.
How to enroll
Nomination from a local/regional science fair and online application.
Ready to apply?
Information current as of Jun 13, 2026.