Hi all, I’m a rising sophomore in HS looking into the Intel ISEF competition. I am interested in biochemistry/medical research as a career, and this seems like a great opportunity for me to do some real research. I’d love to participate! Do you think participating as a sophomore is too early? I have taken Honors Bio, and will take Honors Chem next year (AP sciences aren’t open until junior year at my school). Also, how can I find a mentor? I have a couple general research ideas but I don’t really want to give them out, mostly cause I’m paranoid someone will take them haha. Hint: it involves CRISPR. Would the biochemistry department of a university be a good place to look for a mentor? Should I do the study with a friend, or do it individually? Also, is there any possibility I could get published in a journal with the research project?
sorry for all the questions, I’m just super curious about this - I just heard about it today! Thanks
Hey! Glad you’re enthusiastic early on. Competitions like ISEF and Siemens are great.
No, participating as a sophomore is not too early. As a sophomore, you may have to be part of a team, though. I’m a little fuzzy on ISEF rules.
Ask your science teachers if they have any connections with fellow scientists that are actively researching. If not, then comb over the science departments at your local universities. Find some faculty that have interests aligned with yours, and start emailing them!
Before doing this, though, you should probably do a bit of research and look into prior art in the field. These contests will judge you on originality/impact in the field, and if you work on something that’s already been thoroughly worked on, 1). you may not get far in the competition, and 2). you may have trouble publishing research. Spend a couple of hours on Google Scholar and make sure that what you’re thinking of working on is reasonably original.
Best of luck! Research is so much fun.
@newkidnewtrix Thanks for replying! I’m pretty sure you don’t have to be on a team. I have a friend that would probably be interested in this though, I’m just afraid she might not want to put in as much time. And, honestly, I’m scared she wouldn’t want to go along with whatever idea I’d choose, and that she’d want all the credit/to be the first author. She’s really nice, but let’s just say she loves putting her name first. It’s kinda funny one of the things she did, but I can’t post it here bc I don’t want her to read it haha. Anyway I’m already brainstorming research ideas. Do you think it’s better to work alone or with a partner? Also, were you ever in one of those types of science fairs? Maybe i’m projecting, but it sounds like it from your post. What was it like?
No, you do not need to be on a team to participate in ISEF. Both individual and team categories are available to grades 9-12. However, to enter ISEF, you need to win a spot by competing and winning a qualifying fair. This would be a state or regional fair. There should be links to find your qualifying opportunities on the ISEF main page.
Good luck!
Definitely do it alone then if you have the chance!
No, I haven’t entered one yet, but I’m planning to enter Siemens in the fall (they only let you enter solo as a senior). I’ve had an absolute truckload of research experience, though. Let me know if you want help or advice with vetting your project or cold-emailing profs, I’m more than happy to help!
I know somebody who made ISEF as a sophomore. It’s possible! Have fun researching!