A student at the Salk Fair explains his research to a volunteer judge.
Young scientists from across Chester County once again met for the chance to showcase their knowledge and engage in friendly rivalry at the 2025 Chester County Science Research Competition (CCSRC), organized by the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU).
On Tuesday, March 11, and Wednesday, March 12, the West Chester University (WCU) Student Recreation Center hosted over 375 students from 50 schools, who displayed their love of science across 15 different categories, including botany, computer science, engineering, and more.
The CCSRC, which is sponsored by CCRES and the Children’s Fund of Chester County, offers two opportunities for students to share their scientific findings: the Dr. Lucy Balian Rorke- Adams Fair is for students in grades 6-12, and the Dr. Jonas Salk Fair is for students in grades 4-5. This year, the Rorke-Adams Fair included 72 volunteer judges, while the Salk Fair included 45 volunteer judges, each offering unique expertise from a variety of backgrounds across many industries.
At both fairs, students presented the results of months-long research projects as judges asked questions and offered valuable feedback. After each student was interviewed, the judges deliberated in category-based groups and determined this year’s winners.
After a full day of competition, both the Rorke-Adams Fair and the Salk Fair concluded with an open house in the evening, where students and their families had the opportunity to browse all the projects. During the Salk open house, students who placed in each of the 15 categories received their awards while accompanied by their family and friends.
Among the many outstanding works on display at the Salk fair, the judges called special attention to Jai G. from Great Valley, whose presentation titled “Color Assist” was awarded Best of Fair. The winners of the Rorke-Adams Fair will be announced during the awards ceremony on Tuesday, March 18.
“I think it’s all about the student curiosity and the thinking they have in order to design their
project. They’re very excited about it and I am totally impressed,” said Dr. Shikhar Arggarwal, a volunteer judge. He went on to conclude that “our science is in great hands.”
Another volunteer judge, Mary Curley, mentioned the sometimes-overlooked skills required to succeed at CCSRC, noting that participants, “not only present their work but defend their work and show what they’ve learned from it. I think that’s a hidden benefit: students have to take what they’re learning and then really be able to communicate it to someone else.”
“The Chester County Science Research Competition is a great opportunity for young minds to experience real-world scientific inquiry,” said Kathy Gurnee, special events coordinator for the CCIU. “By bringing together hundreds of students from across the county, we create an environment where they can showcase their innovative thinking, build confidence in their abilities, and connect with peers who share their passion for discovery. Through this experience, students don’t just learn about science – they become scientists.”
The CCIU would like to thank both the West Chester Borough Police as well as West Chester University Public Safety officers for their assistance with this event.
To learn more about the Chester County Science Research Competition, please visit cciu.org/student-activities/science-research-competition
