EXTON, PA — More than 369 students from 50 schools across Chester County showcased months of scientific research and innovation during the 2026 Chester County Science Research Competition, a two-day event that celebrated curiosity, discovery, and the next generation of scientists.
Hosted March 10 and 11 at Church Farm School in Exton, the annual competition brought young researchers together for a spirited showcase of projects spanning 15 scientific categories, including botany, computer science, engineering, and environmental science. Organized by the Chester County Intermediate Unit, the event created an energetic and collaborative atmosphere as students presented their findings, answered judges’ questions, and shared their passion for science with peers and families.
The competition features two divisions that allow students of different grade levels to participate. The Dr. Lucy Balian Rorke-Adams Fair includes students in grades 6 through 12, while the Dr. Jonas Salk Fair welcomes students in grades 4 and 5. This year’s event included the support of 54 volunteer judges for the Rorke-Adams Fair and 41 volunteer judges for the Salk Fair, bringing expertise from a wide range of professional and academic fields.
After presenting their projects and participating in interviews with judges, students and families gathered for an evening open house where attendees explored the full display of research projects. During the Salk Fair open house, students who placed in each of the 15 categories were recognized and celebrated alongside family members and supporters.
Among the standout presentations at the Salk Fair was Sadie Bryan of Beaver Creek Elementary School, whose project titled “Can You Hear Me Now?” earned the Best of Fair distinction.
Volunteer judge Dr. Delfi Krishna praised the event for encouraging both scientific and personal growth among students.
“This is such a great experience, and I can’t thank the CCIU enough for pulling this together,” Krishna said. “The students learn so many hard and soft skills, like the scientific method and how to design and experiment, and collect data, but they also learn the most important soft skill, which is critical thinking.”
Students also embraced the opportunity to share their work and enthusiasm for science. Aania Kawade of Brandywine Wallace Elementary said presenting her project was one of the highlights of the experience.
“I loved being able to teach people about our project,” Kawade said. “We really love chemistry, so getting to conduct the experiment was one of my favorite parts.”
Her project partner, Hitha Srinivasa, said the event helped fuel her own scientific ambitions.
“I love science, and this fair gave us the chance to really dig into it,” Srinivasa said. “I love space, and my grandfather was a rocket scientist in India, so I would love to be a rocket scientist for the United States one day.”
Kathy Gurnee, special events coordinator for the Chester County Intermediate Unit, said the event continues to inspire students across the county.
“This competition transforms students,” Gurnee said. “Hundreds of young minds from across Chester County come together to showcase their ideas, build confidence, and connect with peers who share their curiosity. They don’t just learn about science, they become scientists.”
Thank You to Sponsors and Volunteers
Organizers credited the success of the competition to the many partners and volunteers who helped make the event possible. Special recognition was given to Church Farm School for hosting the 37th annual competition and serving as a Silver-level sponsor. Additional support came from CCRES and the Children’s Fund of Chester County, along with the dozens of volunteer judges who evaluated projects and provided feedback to participants.
The Rorke-Adams Fair winners will be announced during an awards ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, March 17, concluding another successful year of scientific exploration and achievement for Chester County students.
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