PA Junior Academy of Science
The PA Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) is a statewide organization of junior and senior high school students designed to stimulate and promote interest in science among its members through the development of research projects and investigations.
In the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science, an individual student designs and performs an experimental study of his choosing within the area of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, Psychology, or Computer Science. Students then present their findings in a 10 minute oral presentation to a panel of judges during the Region 7 (Western PA) competition, generally held in February. If the student receives a first award (not a first place in relation to his fellow participants, but an indication of excellent work), he then may choose to present his findings at the state competition, generally held in mid May at Penn State University. A number of special awards, including cash, partial scholarships, admission to prestigious science camps, and plaques are also presented to some of the more outstanding competitors.