Robot races, DNA fingerprinting and photonics were among the projects young scientists explored this week during Brock University’s 34rd annual Scientifically Yours conference.

Hosted by Brock’s Faculty of Mathematics and Science, the event was created to encourage young people to pursue education and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) by offering engaging hands-on lab activities and mentorship experiences.

“We continue to increase the confidence of high school students to pursue STEM fields in their post-secondary education,” says Co-organizer Christene Carpenter-Cleland, Senior Laboratory Demonstrator with Brock’s Biological Sciences Department.

As part of the conference, held Thursday, May 9 and Friday, May 10, each student participated in six STEM projects in fields ranging from psychology and health sciences to chemistry and engineering.

“Over the past three decades, projects have evolved and changed,” says Carpenter-Cleland. “Two new projects this year was analytical testing of snack foods and the psychology of procrastination.”

Students also took part in recreational activities, networked with professional scientists at a mentors’ dinner and attended a panel discussion to learn from current Brock students and professionals who have careers in the sciences. They experienced a taste of university life by sleeping on campus in residence dorm rooms and eating at Brock’s dining halls.

This year’s Scientifically Yours conference attracted 96 Grade 10 and 11 students from 27 schools across the province.