While the 2025 Science Talent Search scholars are deeply engaged in their research, they also make time to participate in a range of activities such as advocacy, nonprofit work or inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. The sky’s the limit for these exceptional innovators. Read on to learn about some of the diverse projects and initiatives these students are involved in outside of research.

For the sixth year, The Lemelson Foundation is giving $100 awards to outstanding young inventors in Society Affiliate Fairs with middle school participants around the country. The prize was created to reward young inventors whose projects exemplify the ideals of inventive thinking by identifying challenges in their communities and creating solutions that will improve lives.

The Society’s middle school science program was first launched in 1999 to encourage achievement and communication in science and math at a younger age and to serve as the nation’s premier STEM research competition for middle school students.