Youth STEM Institute

07/17/2026

🎥 One week. Countless discoveries.

From exploring rivers and streams to conducting water quality tests and learning from researchers across Ohio State’s campus, the 2026 Youth STEM Institute gave students a firsthand look at what it’s like to think—and work—like a scientist.

Hosted by the Ohio Supercomputer Center, gives middle school students the opportunity to explore STEM through hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire what’s possible.

A huge thank you to our staff, researchers, partners, and everyone who helped make this year’s program a success. And to our students—we can’t wait to see where your curiosity takes you next.

07/16/2026

🧊From Ohio’s rivers to Earth’s polar regions.

Today, students visited the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Center, where they learned how researchers study glaciers, climate, and environmental change around the world.

The visit highlighted how science connects local observations to global challenges—and how curiosity can lead to discoveries that impact us all.

07/16/2026

07/15/2026

💧Collect. Measure. Discover.

Today, students became environmental scientists as they conducted water quality testing along the Olentangy River.

By collecting samples and analyzing data, students experienced how careful observation and scientific research help us better understand—and protect—our natural resources.

Science comes to life when students get to do it themselves.

07/15/2026

🌿 Science doesn’t just happen in a lab.

On Tuesday, students headed to Big Darby Creek and the Big Darby Nature Center, where they experienced one of Ohio’s most diverse ecosystems firsthand.

By observing wildlife, exploring local habitats, and learning why healthy waterways matter, students saw how field research helps scientists understand and protect the natural world.

Sometimes the best classroom has no walls.

07/14/2026

📸 Meet the 2026 Youth STEM Institute!

This week, students from across Ohio are spending their summer exploring environmental science alongside researchers and educators through the Ohio Supercomputer Center’s Youth STEM Institute.

From field research to laboratory experiences, they’ll discover how science helps us better understand the world around us—and maybe even discover a future career along the way.

Welcome to ! We’re excited to see what this week has in store.

07/13/2026

🧪🌊 Science starts with asking questions.

Today, students visited the Aquatic Ecology Laboratory, where they explored how researchers study freshwater ecosystems and the organisms that call them home.

From examining aquatic life to learning how scientists monitor the health of rivers and streams, students got an up-close look at the research helping us better understand Ohio’s waterways.

Every discovery starts with curiosity—and today offered plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

03/18/2026

📣 Know a student interested in STEM?

Applications for the Ohio Supercomputer Center’s 2026 Summer Programs close April 1.

These hands-on programs give Ohio students the opportunity to explore computing, research, and real-world problem solving in a supportive environment.

STEM Institute: High school (freshman–junior)
Youth STEM Institute: 6th–7th grade

If you’re an educator, parent, or mentor, we encourage you to share this opportunity with students who might be interested.

👉 Learn more and apply:
https://www.osc.edu/education/summer_programs