The North Museum is accepting registrations for its Science and Engineering Fair (NMSEF), which will be held on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Millersville University in Millersville.

For the first time in its 73 years, the Science and Engineering Fair, presented by the Arconic Foundation, is open not only to students in Lancaster County, but also to those in Lebanon County. It is available to students in grades six through 12 from public, private, charter, online, and parochial schools and homeschooling programs.

The inclusion of Lebanon County students marks the NMSEF's expansion to a regional science and engineering fair like the Pittsburgh science fair, the Philadelphia science fair, and Harrisburg's Capital Area fair. The NMSEF is one of six fairs in Pennsylvania affiliated with the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), and the top two students from the senior division of the NMSEF will earn a place at the ISEF to compete with 1,500 of their peers from around the world. The North Museum will pay for registration, fees, travel, and accommodations for its two champions.

The North Museum's resident astronomer, Cole Penkunas, commented, "As a former Warwick High School student, the NMSEF was the pinnacle of my STEM education each year. The competition was formidable and prepared me for the demands of thesis fulfillment at the Pennsylvania State University, where I focused my research on very massive stars, particularly luminous blue variables, Wolf-Rayet stars, and their possible link. I'm excited to see what the young scientists in Lancaster and Lebanon counties will bring to the competition this year."

All student registrations are free of charge. Through Monday, Oct. 21, teachers and students may register at https://northmuseum.org/nmsef/. Teachers and adult sponsors are advised to directly assist students as they complete the registration form. The North Museum will also offer support to all educators wishing to assist students in finding a project, developing a research plan, and supporting student research.

Presenting sponsor Arconic Foundation has given a $50,000 grant for the fair.

"The North Museum is thrilled by the generosity of the Arconic Foundation and their ongoing commitment to supporting access to STEM education opportunities for students in Lancaster and Lebanon counties," said Scott Downs, director of development and strategic partnerships. "We continue to be grateful for the financial support we receive from the many sponsors of the NMSEF, as well as the outstanding contributions from our judges, volunteers, and participating teachers and students."

Businesses interested in sponsorships may contact Downs at sdowns@northmuseum.org. Community volunteers are also needed to assist at the event and may contact sciencefair@northmuseum.org.

Throughout its history, the NMSEF has inspired thousands of young researchers to explore science and engineering through various projects. The North Museum has managed the fair in Lancaster County since 2009, furthering its mission of enabling knowledge of nature and science by inspiring individuals, engaging communities, and connecting organizations.