A group of 300 middle school students from across the US have been named the country’s leading young science and technology minds in this year’s Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge. Their projects span everything from artificial intelligence and space exploration to tackling waste, wildfires and chronic disease.
Chosen from nearly 2,000 applicants nationwide, the finalists offer a hopeful, more diverse picture of the nation’s next generation of scientists. They come from 34 states and Puerto Rico, speak over 40 languages between them, and nearly two-thirds attend public schools.
“These young innovators embody the most promising science and engineering talent in the nation,” said Maya Ajmera, President and CEO, Society for Science, which runs the competition. “They are taking on complex challenges and demonstrating a passion for STEM that can lead to impactful change.”
Thermo Fisher has sponsored the competition as part of its stated commitment to opening up access to science education. Dr Karen Nelson, Chief Scientific Officer, Thermo Fisher, said: “Recognising and supporting young scientific minds is essential to fostering the next generation of innovators who will shape a brighter, more collaborative future for us all.”
The Junior Innovators Challenge is the only national STEM contest designed specifically for middle school students, but is similar to other corporate-backed competitions such as Regeneron’s Science Talent Search or the Broadcom MASTERS awards, which focus on older learners.
On 17 September 2025, a shortlist of 30 students will be announced to compete for major prizes of up to $25,000, including awards for health research, invention and sustainability.
