STEM research and career symposium

The public is invited to attend a free research and career symposium July 12, 5–7 p.m at the University of Maine Hutchinson Center, featuring a keynote address by Kristina Cammen, a marine mammal science professor in UMaine’s School of Marine Sciences. 

The 11 students from seven area high schools who are enrolled in the UMaine course, Introduction to Integrated Science and Career Exploration (INT 188) will share the results of their research, career-planning and job-shadowing experiences at the symposium with poster presentations and talks. 

Research topics include, ‘Wayward molecules in the environment’ in which students investigate microplastics, automobile exhaust, the chemistry of stormwater runoff and other contaminants in water, air and soil. “How organisms respond to their environments” exploring environmental changes in nutrients, salinity and heavy metals by measuring growth rates, reproduction, feeding and mortality in aquatic plants, algae and copepods. 

Introduction to Integrated Science and Career Exploration (INT 188) is an early college STEM research course designed to introduce high school students to higher education and careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. In the 38 hours of course and lab work, students undertake a guided research project with peers. They also participate in eight hours of job shadowing and career planning with local STEM-related businesses.

For more information contact Christopher Tremblay, science program coordinator, 338.8038; christopher.james.tremblay@maine.edu.