Biochemistry The study of the chemical basis of processes occurring in living organisms, including the processes by which these substances enter into, or are formed in, the organisms and react with each other and the environment. Subcategories : Analytical Biochemistry General Biochemistry Medicinal Biochemistry Structural Biochemistry Other/Multiple Analytical Biochemistry: The study of biochemical components found in a cell or other biological sample. The study of the separation, identification, and quantification of chemical components relevant to living organisms. General Biochemistry: The study of chemical and physiochemical processes, including interactions and reactions, relevant to living organisms. Medicinal Biochemistry: The study of biochemical processes within the human body, with special reference to health and disease. Structural Biochemistry: The study of components, functions, and structures of molecules of cells within living organisms. Projects in this subcategory can address various variables of cells through the theories of Chemistry and the laws of Physics. Other/Multiple: Studies in Biochemistry that do not fit in the above subcategories or which may involve multiple subcategories. Next Project Category Previous Project Category

Information Workshops (OLD, DO NOT USE) SLB members are eager to share their enthusiasm, experience, and knowledge with you in a series of interactive step-by-step workshops designed to help you produce a successful STEM project. Workshop topics focus on how to participate in the GSDSEF as well as the entire science fair process and the scientific method/engineering principles from start to finish - from coming up with a project idea, to putting together your science notebook, to designing your poster board, and to finally preparing you for judging. Experienced SLB members are also available to work with you on an individual basis - to answer your specific questions based on your own project. For 2025-26, SLB will be hosting most workshops via Zoom. Workshop information will be sent to your teachers. Zoom links to each workshop will be sent to those who RSVP. Workshop Schedule 2025-26 All workshops are scheduled on Saturdays from 9:30-10:30 AM Sept. 6, 2025 - Workshop #1- Finding an Idea Sept. 20, 2025 Workshop #2- GSDSEF Student Account and SRC Process Oct. 11, 2025 Workshop #3- Using the Scientific Method/Engineering Design Process: Problem-->Results Dec. 6, 2025 - Workshop #4A- Data Analysis and Statistics- Basic Dec. 17, 2025 Workshop #4B- Data Analysis and Statistics- Advanced Jan. 10, 2026 Workshop #5- Screening- Digital Project Slidedeck and Notebook Feb. 14, 2026 - Workshop #6- Science Fair Display Backboard and Notebook March 7, 2026 - Workshop #7- In -person Science Fair Judging Practice; 2:30-5:30pm; Tierrasanta Library March 28, 2026 - Workshop #8- Post Fair Workshop Check out our GSDSEF YouTube page for more workshops!

Sponsors How To Support The Fair The GSDSEF Needs Your Support Since 1955, the Greater San Diego Science & Engineering Fair has been fostering creativity and innovation through inquiry and design. We celebrate students' STEM achievements and showcase how young minds can make an impact in the present and future. Why Contribute? The GSDSEF ... provides a forum for students to showcase their STEM research to the community. is a networking opportunity for students and the scientific, business, and academic communities. provides student recognition through awards and scholarships. provides an opportunity to advance to state, national, international, and other science and engineering competitions. By contributing to the GSDSEF, you are supporting the next generation of scientists, engineers, computer scientists, mathematicians, health-care professionals – the problem-solvers...doers...innovators...constructors – those who will make a positive difference in the world. GSDSEF_Brochure_for_Fundraising_ .pdf Download PDF • 1.06MB Become a Corporate Sponsor Premier - $25,000 and up • Major Sponsor of the GSDSEF • Introductory speech at Awards Ceremony, banner displayed • Name/Logo displayed on all GSDSEF digital and print literature Diamond - $15,000 - $24,999 • Presence on stage at Awards Ceremony, banner displayed • Name/Logo displayed on all GSDSEF digital and print literature Platinum- $10,000 - $14,999 • Mention at the Awards Ceremony, banner displayed Gold - $5,000 - $9,999 • Name/Logo displayed on all GSDSEF digital and print literature Silver - $2,500 - $4,999 • Name/Logo displayed on all GSDSEF digital and print literature Bronze - $1,000 - $2,499 • Name/Logo displayed on all GSDSEF digital and print literature Friends of GSDSEF - $999 and less • Name displayed on Sponsor page—no logo GSDSEF_Sponsorship_Levels .pdf Download PDF • 273KB Contact our team at sponsor@gsdsef.org to become a Corporate Sponsor. For individual or group donations, please contact us via the Contact Us Online link at the bottom of the page. Your support of the students of San Diego and Imperial Counties is greatly appreciated! The GSDSEF wishes to thank the following sponsors: Premier Sponsor $25,000 and up Qualcomm Diamond Sponsors $15,000 - $24,999 PECG (Professional Engineers in California Government) Xzom Platinum Sponsors $10,000 - $14,999 ASML Broadcom Foundation General Atomics Science Education Foundation Lilly Walter J. and Betty C. Zable Foundation Gold Sponsors $5000 - $9,999 Thermo Fisher Scientific Silver Sponsors $2,500 - $4,999 Collins Aerospace Systems DRS Daylight Solutions Future Forward Labs Pfizer Bronze Sponsors $1,000 - $2,499 Taiwanese American Foundation of S.D. The Super Dentists Friends of GSDSEF In-Kind Sponsors San Diego County Office of Education San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Signa Digital Solutions Area Merchants, Businesses, Community Organizations San Diego City Parks and Recreation – Balboa Park Activity Center Community Volunteers GSDSEF is an all-volunteer, registered tax-exempt California non-profit 501 (c) 3 Corporation, operating as a Public Charity Status. We are totally dependent on donations from industry, business, and friends like you to make the science fair possible. EIN #23-7332855

Information Award Sponsors & Criteria Our Thanks to Special Award Sponsors We extend our sincere appreciation to the organizations that support GSDSEF students through Special Awards. Their continued involvement helps celebrate student achievement and fosters meaningful connections between students and the broader STEM community. Special Award Sponsors and Award Criteria To help students, educators, and families better understand Special Awards, click here to view the GSDSEF Special Award Sponsors and Award Criteria , which includes information about recent Special Award sponsors and the award criteria established by each organization. Please note that the number, scope, and criteria of Special Awards may vary from year to year. GSDSEF Special Award Sponsors and Award Criteria Interested in Sponsoring a Special Award? If your organization is interested in sponsoring a Special Award or would like to learn more about this opportunity, please visit our Contact Us page. We would be delighted to connect and explore how you can support our students. Recent Special Award Sponsors The organizations listed below represent a sample of recent Special Award sponsors and do not constitute a complete or definitive list: Air and Waste Management Association - San Diego Chapter American Psychological Association American Society of Civil Engineers American Society of Mechanical Engineers, San Diego Section American Society of Non Destructive Testing (San Diego Section) Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association Association for Women Geoscientists Association for Women in Science San Diego BD “Advancing the World of Health” Award Broadcom “Coding with Commitment” Award Building Industry Association Cares California Association of Professional Scientists California Environmental Health Association Southwest Chapter and County of San Diego DEHQ California School Nurse Organization - San Diego/Imperial (CSNO- SDI) Citadel Securities Innovation Prize Collins Aerospace’s Fred H. Rohr Science Award Department of Defense (DoD) STEM Leadership Prize DRS Daylight Solutions Award for Optical Physics and Engineering DRS Daylight Solutions Project Assistance Award for Optical Physics and Engineering General Atomics Sciences Education Foundation Kaiser Permanente Blue Ribbon Award Lemelson Early Inventor Prize Marine Technology Society NASA EARTH System Science Award National Geographic Award National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration “Taking the Pulse of the Planet” Award Nature Needs SD Office of Naval Research (U.S. Navy/U.S. Marine Corps) Professional Engineers in California Government Award Regeneron Biomedical Science Award Ricoh USA, Inc. San Diego Astronomy Association San Diego Chapter, American Society of Materials International San Diego County Dental Foundation San Diego County Veterinary Medical Association San Diego County Water Authority San Diego Psychological Association San Diego Section, American Chemical Society Scripps Research Young Scientist Award Society for In Vitro Biology Society for Women Engineers - San Diego County Section Stockholm Junior Water Prize Taiwan Award The Society of American Military Engineers - San Diego Post Thermo Fisher Award Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge Torrey Pines Docent Society U.S. Air Force U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) U.S. Metric Association Yale Science and Engineering Association

Microbiology The study of micro-organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, prokaryotes, and simple eukaryotes as well as antimicrobial and antibiotic substances. Subcategories: Antimicrobial and Antibiotics Applied Microbiology Bacteriology Environmental Microbiology Microbial Genetics Virology Other/Multiple Antimicrobials and Antibiotics: Studies involving substances that kill or inhibit the growth of a microorganism. Applied Microbiology: The study of microorganisms having potential applications in human, animal or plant health. Bacteriology: The study of bacteria and bacterial diseases and the microorganisms responsible for causing a disease. This field focuses on ideas spanning a wide range of topics, from identification and characterization of bacteria, all the way to the development of effective vacancies to combat various types of bacteria. Environmental Microbiology: Studies involving microbial interactions and processes within the environment. Air microbiology, soil microbiology and water microbiology as well as the study of biofilms would be included in this subcategory. Microbial Genetics: The study of the genetics of microorganisms such as bacteria, archaea and some protozoa and fungi and their chromosomes, plasmids, transposons and phages. Studies can also include gene transfer systems such as transformation, conjugation and transduction. Virology: The study of viruses – submicroscopic, parasitic particles of genetic material contained in a protein coat – and virus-like agents. Research in this subcategory may focus on the development and effectiveness of treatments for viruses, the development and life cycle of a particular virus, or how the immune system recognizes a virus and what stimulates immune responses. Other/Multiple: Studies in Microbiology that do not fit in the above subcategories or which may involve multiple subcategories. Next Project Category Previous Project Category

Information Learn More Why should students do STEM Research Projects? Benefits.. The GSDSEF promotes experimentation, creativity, and discovery…. Students benefit by: • using many disciplines including reading, writing, mathematics, art and design. • using logic, data, reason, rationale, and critical thinking to formulate conclusions. • earning awards, scholarships, and trips. • defending their research to judges, increasing their communication skills. • completing a STEM portfolio of their skills • getting a sense of pride by completing a long term, open-ended project with perseverance In the competitive world of college applications, participation in the GSDSEF is a great plus because it proves that the student can set goals and complete a long-term project that distinguishes him/her from other students. Students, if you • are a 6 th - 12 th grade student interested in science, technology, engineering, and/or math. • are curious and like to think outside the box • enjoy building or creating things • like to come up with solutions to problems • want to make a difference in the future ...then participating in the Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair is for you! For over 70 years, the GSDSEF-- now with over 35,000 alumni ! -- has been promoting and nurturing San Diego’s and America’s future STEM workforce. The GSDSEF is a 501(c)(3) run by volunteers on the Management Committee and Board of Directors, and is supported entirely by regional corporate and educational donors—truly a hugely successful industry-education partnership! The GSDSEF is very important in maintaining this region’s leadership in STEM and cultivating it further and is an opportunity for regional companies and organizations, who understand the importance of an educated and qualified STEM workforce, to invest in their future resource pool through their sponsorship and participation. Each March the GSDSEF sponsors the largest and most prestigious STEM competition in San Diego and Imperial Counties. All 6-12 students in these two counties are welcome to participate. All projects go through a rigorous safety and quality review in order to qualify to compete, and every student who participates wins a Categorial Award. In addition, professional Societies and Organizations award nearly $40k in prizes. Each year 89 students from the GSDSEF are selected to compete in the California Science and Engineering Fair. The top 8 Senior Division (9-12) projects in the GSDSEF earn the unique privilege to compete against the world’s best young researchers at the International Science and Engineering Fair—the largest and most competitive STEM Fair in the world. The GSDSEF fosters creativity and innovation through inquiry, celebrates students’ STEM achievements, and showcases how young minds can make an impact in the present and future. Come and join us! Get involved now as a student, teacher, parent, volunteer, or sponsor!

Computer Science & Systems Software The study or development of software, information processes or methodologies to demonstrate, analyze, or control a process/solution. Subcategories: Algorithms Cybersecurity Databases Human/Machine Interface Languages and Operating Systems Mobile Apps Online Learning Virtual/Augmented Reality and Simulations (abiotic) Technology and the Arts Other/Multiple Algorithms: The study or creation of algorithms – step-by-step procedure of calculations to complete a specific task in data processing, automated reasoning and computing. Artificial Intelligence : Studies involving the ability of computers to think and learn--including speech recognition, problem solving, and planning. Cybersecurity: Studies involving the protection of a computer or computer systems against unauthorized access or attacks. This can include studies involving hardware, network, software, host or multimedia security. Databases: Studies that create or analyze data organization for ease of access, management and update. Human/Machine Interface: Software application that presents information to a user about the state of a process and to accept and implement the operator’s control instructions. Languages and Operating Systems: Studies that involve the development or analysis of artificial languages used to write instructions that can be translated into machine language and then executed by a computer or system software responsible for the direct control and management of hardware and basic system operations of a computer or mobile device. Mobile Apps: A study involving a software application developed specifically for use on small, wireless computing devices. These studies may include front-end development techniques, such as user interface design and cross-platform support, and/or back-end development techniques, such as data services and business logic. Online Learning: Studies that focus on utilizing electronic technologies to access educational curriculum outside of a traditional means. Studies explore the design of learning activities and programs with online technologies, as well as the effective use of e-learning systems. Virtual/Augmented Reality and Simulations (abiotic) : Creation of immersive, simulated environments using computer systems allowing the user to use/explore/manipulate 3D visual images. Technology and the Arts: Display Technology (DSP): New presentation technology to enhance the realism and excitement in entertainment. Human Information Exchange (HIE): Technologies that enhance linguistic communications between people to include languages, interpretations, and narrations. Music and Image Manipulation (MIM): The use of waveform manipulation technology to create, enhance or improve the enjoyment and/or selection of music or images. Games (GAM): Technology that creates or enhances the interactive sensory environments for competition. 3D Modeling (MOD): Technologies based on additive processes to produce new 3D art works. Engineering Effects (ENG): The use of autonomous devices to enhance the human artistic experience. Other/Multiple: Studies in Computer Sciences and Systems Software that do not fit in the above subcategories or which may involve multiple subcategories. Next Project Category Previous Project Category

Teachers Definitions of SRC Review and Quality Screening What is SRC Review? During the Scientific Review Committee (SRC) review, qualified scientists, engineers, and teachers review each project proposal to determine if safe scientific and engineering practices will be followed, as well as compliance with all GSDSEF and ISEF Rules and Regulations . Students must have approval from the SRC BEFORE they start their project. What is Quality Screening? During Quality Screening, qualified scientists, engineers, and teachers review each completed project to determine if correct scientific and engineering practices have been followed, as well as compliance with all GSDSEF and ISEF Rules and Regulations . Quality Screening approval is required AFTER students complete their project. For details, see the How To Participate and Schedule pages on this website.

Information Category Judge Resources Dear Judges, Judging for the 2027 Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair will take place in person at the Balboa Park Activity Center on Wednesday, March 10, 2027. You can support the Fair and the students by volunteering as a judge. After judging registration opens in January 2027 , to register as a judge please click here to access zFairs. Tutorial videos will be provided to help you navigate through zFairs, where you will be able to view virtual previews of student projects. With your help as a judge, we will make the 2027 GSDSEF as successful as all the previous 72 Fairs! For 2027 we will continue with these categories and descriptions which were introduced in 2022. Each category name below is hyperlinked to a category-specific judging guide, for you to view or download. You can also view the Project Categories page f or descriptions of each category. Animal Sciences Behavioral and Social Sciences Biochemistry Biomedical Health Sciences and Biomedical Engineering Cellular and Molecular Biology Chemistry Computational Biology and Bioinformatics Computer Science and Systems Software Earth and Environmental Sciences Engineering: Electrical, Mechanical, and Robotics Engineering: Energy, Materials, and Transport Mathematics Microbiology Physics and Astronomy Plant Sciences Product Testing View or download additional judging resources below: GSDSEF Standards for Judging a Science Fair Project 20 Questions You Might Ask Comparing Projects Elements of a Science Fair Project Reward the Best Encourage the Rest Judges Rubric Alyssa Mroczek Judging Coordinator For more information, please contact: judging@gsdsef.org

Information What Are Special Awards? Note: What were previously referred to as “Professional Society Awards” are now called “Special Awards.” This updated name better reflects the wide variety of organizations - from nonprofits to global corporations - that participate in sponsoring these recognitions. “Special Awards” is a broad term used to describe any recognition given independently by a participating group, organization, or company at the Greater San Diego Science & Engineering Fair (GSDSEF). This includes industry organizations, professional societies, special interest groups, businesses, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions, and government agencies. Each year, these organizations come together to celebrate student achievement by sponsoring Special Awards that honor excellence in specific fields - from engineering and environmental science to health, innovation, and community impact. Why Special Awards Matter Special Awards are a meaningful way to recognize and encourage promising young scientists and engineers. These awards connect students with real-world opportunities and highlight exceptional work that aligns with an organization’s mission or values. Special Awards by the Numbers Our Special Awards program is a cornerstone of the GSDSEF experience: 60+ sponsoring organizations, including professional societies, businesses, and government agencies. 250+ professional judges representing local and national industries. 200+ unique awards and recognitions. $40,000+ in total prizes and scholarships awarded annually. How Special Awards Work There is no set minimum financial commitment - you have full flexibility to customize your involvement: Define Your Award: You determine the award’s name, field of interest, selection criteria, and the prize. Choose Your Prize: Awards range from formal certificates and branded swag to professional event invitations. Monetary awards typically range from $100 to $1,000, though some organizations choose to sponsor immersive experiences. Select Your Winners: You can send your own representatives to judge on-site or have the GSDSEF select winners based on your specific criteria. Celebrate Achievement: Awardees are recognized during the GSDSEF Awards Ceremony, and sponsors receive contact information to follow up with their winners directly. Become a Sponsor We welcome participation from industry organizations, professional societies, nonprofits, startups, and academic institutions. Help us inspire the next generation of leaders in science and innovation. Ready to get started? If you are interested in sponsoring an award, please contact our Special Awards Coordinator: Sejal Pabari | specialawards@gsdsef.org

Animal Sciences This category includes all aspects of animals and animal life, animal life cycles, and animal interactions with one another or with their environment. Examples of investigations included in this category would involve the study of the structure, physiology, development, and classification of animals, animal ecology, animal husbandry, entomology, ichthyology, ornithology, and herpetology, as well as the study of animals at the cellular and molecular level which would include cytology, histology, and cellular physiology. Subcategories: Animal Behavior Cellular Studies Development Ecology Genetics Nutrition and Growth Physiology Systematics and Evolution Other/Multiple Subcategories Animal Behavior : The study of animal activities which includes investigating animal interactions within and between species or an animal’s response to environmental factors. Examples are animal communication, learning, and intelligence, rhythmic functions, sensory preferences, pheromones, and environmental effects on behaviors, both naturally and experimentally induced. Cellular Studies: The study of animal cells involving the use of microscopy to study cell structure and studies investigating activity within cells such as enzyme pathways, cellular biochemistry, and synthesis pathways for DNA, RNA, and protein. Development: The study of an organism from the time of fertilization through birth or hatching and into later life. This includes cellular and molecular aspects of fertilization, development, regeneration, and environmental effects on development. Ecology: The study of interactions and behavioral relationships among animals, and animals and plants, with their environment and with one another. Genetics: The study of genes, genetic variation, and heredity in living organisms. These projects include studies of heredity, dealing with resemblances and differences of related organisms resulting from the interaction of their genes and the environment. Studies may include projects relating to gene expression, gene regulation, genomics, and model organisms. Nutrition and Growth: The study of natural, artificial, or maternal nutrients on animal growth, development, and reproduction including the use and effects of biological and chemical control agents to control reproduction and population numbers. Physiology: The study of one of the 11 animal systems. This includes structural and functional studies, system mechanics, and the effect of environmental factors or natural variations on the structure or function of a system. Similar studies conducted specifically at the cellular level should select the cellular studies subcategory. Systematics and Evolution: The study of animal classification and phylogenetic methods including the evolutionary relationships between species and populations. This includes morphological, biochemical, genetic, and modeled systems to describe the relationship of animals to one another. Other/Multiple: Studies in Animal Science that do not fit in the above subcategories or which may involve multiple subcategories. Next Project Category Previous Project Category

Teachers Get Your Students Involved How to get your students competing in the GSDSEF: How do I get my students involved? Abbreviated Timeline Advisor Responsibilities Teachers, do you have 6-12 grade students who: • are interested in science, technology, engineering, and/or math? • are curious and like to think outside the box? • enjoy building or creating things? • like challenges and want to come up with solutions to problems? • want to make a difference in the future? If so, participating in the Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair is for your students! The GSDSEF promotes experimentation, creativity, and discovery…. Students benefit by: • incorporating many disciplines including reading, writing, tech, mathematics, art and design. • using logic, data, reason, rationale, and critical thinking to formulate conclusions. • earning awards, scholarships, and trips. • defending their research to judges, increasing their communication skills. • completing a STEM portfolio of their skills in a project. • getting a sense of pride by completing a long term, open-ended project with perseverance In the competitive world of college applications, participation in the GSDSEF is a great plus because it proves that the student can set goals and complete a long-term project that distinguishes him/her from other students. The benefits for your students are well worth your time! How do I get my students involved? There are many different ways to get your students involved with STEM research: Research projects can be done: • as a required part of a class grade • as extra credit beyond the regular class grade • in a research class with separate credit • through clubs • in labs with mentors • at home independently Abbreviated Timeline: For a detailed schedule/calendar go to: Schedule For a detailed Participation Process go to: How to Participate August- September: An early start is crucial…. Students · select projects · make GSDSEF accounts · go through Safety Review (SRC= Scientific Review Committee) September- January: • Students work on projects January-February: Students · complete projects · go through Quality Screening February: Students · Finish Participation Process with Abstracts and Payment · Make zFairs accounts · Upload Digital Presentations and Notebooks to zFairs · Begin work on physical notebooks and display backboard March: Students · Prepare for Judging Day · Set up Projects at the Balboa Park Activity Center (BPAC) · Present Projects on Judging Day · Attend Awards Ceremony · Take down projects Are you interested in becoming an Advisor? Advisor Responsibilities An Advisor can be a teacher or an adult who is knowledgeable in STEM. Advisors typically help students: · select projects · follow timelines to benchmark progress—an early start is crucial · understand the GSDSEF online participation process · make GSDSEF accounts –after YOU have made your account. · work through the Scientific Review Process--- Which ISEF forms do they need? · review their project progress based on the timeline · by offering advice to improve their projects · with the Quality Review process · with the Digital Presentation, Notebook, and zFairs uploads · practice for Judging Day Ready to become an Advisor for GSDSEF Projects? Simply click on Create Account under the teacher picture. From then on, click on LOGIN to see your teacher dashboard with all of your students’ projects listed. We congratulate and welcome all GSDSEF advisors! We appreciate the great job you do!!