Volunteers Frequently Asked Questions

On Monday, we will be setting up tables and plastic table coverings for the projects to be placed on.  It is a very large room and there are over 100 tables to set up and stage in the correct configuration.  In addition, 2 banquet chairs will be set up at each table so that judges can sit down at a project if needed.  We also have kitchen supplies that need to be set up for our guests throughout the week.

Students registration packets are printed and ready on-site, in alpha order.  Your job as part of the Project Set Up Team is to find their packet, verify the information is correct, show them to their project table, and assist with setting up their project.  A detailed training guide will be emailed to you before the day begins.  We will also walk you through this process on the day you volunteer.  After you set up one project, you will be a pro.

Welcoming and greeting students, parents, and teachers into the space is an essential job because competition can be scary and disappointing at times.  We want to make sure people feel welcome!  A greeter's job is to welcome people into the space, reassure them with a smile, give them directions, and generally be on-hand for reassurance.

Prior to 2025, all judging was on paper. Paper sheets had to be run to the data entry crew to be tallied.  We now use digital judging.  We may have a few judges who prefer to judge on paper.  Assistants on Judging Day may be asked to help judges with QR codes, ipads, wifi set up, or running paper score sheets to the data room. They also may be asked to help direct incoming high school students to a waiting location until the judges are ready for their interviews or other office-related tasks.

The Scientific Review Committee (SRC) is responsible for evaluation of student research, certifications, forms, research plans, and student exhibits for compliance with the rules, applicable laws, and regulations at each level of science fair competition.  An SRC must consist of a minimum of three persons, including: 

• a biomedical scientist with an earned graduate degree. An RN, Doctor, Veterinarian, etc.

• an educator 

• at least one additional member, often an administrator.