The Lambton County Science Fair is gearing up to transform Lambton College into a hub of discovery on April 10 and 11.
The Lambton County Science Fair is gearing up to transform Lambton College into a hub of discovery on April 10 and 11. In the heart of Sarnia-Lambton, where community spirit meets scientific wonder, young minds are tackling real-world challenges with creativity and determination. This annual event promises to inspire parents, educators, and curious residents by showcasing the power of student innovation.
Dr. Melissa Chopcian, a family medicine physician and adjunct professor at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry who helps organize the fair, emphasizes its core purpose. "The Lambton County Science Fair's primary goal is to spark curiosity and a love of discovery among students across Sarnia-Lambton. Scientific progress begins with simple questions and hands-on exploration, and the fair provides a space where young minds can turn ideas into meaningful learning experiences. By celebrating student innovation, the Lambton County Science Fair strengthens our community's commitment to education and helps nurture the next generation of thinkers and problem-solvers."
Halls will buzz with energy as projects span from engineering marvels to environmental solutions and healthcare breakthroughs. This year's entries highlight diverse themes, reflecting the innovative spirit of local youth. As Dr. Chopcian notes, "Science fair projects can range from engineering to healthcare to environmental," ensuring there is something to captivate every visitor.
Public viewing hours kick off on Friday, April 10, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m., with participant sign-in and project setup. Judging follows from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. that evening and continues Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to noon. The excitement culminates in an awards ceremony at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, where students receive recognition for their hard work.
Participating in the fair goes beyond ribbons and accolades; it shapes future career paths. "Our goal is for this experience to encourage youth to pursue fulfilling academic and career journeys while building valuable life skills like critical thinking and problem-solving-skills that support success in every aspect of life," says Dr. Chopcian.
One shining example is Cyndi Rayson, a dedicated student whose project addresses water quality and pollution. "This year, I decided to tackle the challenge of water quality and pollution in our local systems," Rayson explains. "Heavy metals, nutrients, cyanobacteria, and PFAS are natural and chemical water pollutants that harm our drinking water and sanitation. To combat this problem, I am investigating phytoremediation to remove pollutants. I was inspired by the water quality problems Aamjiwnaang First Nation faced and headlines I saw about PFAS resulting in water loss. I strongly believe that water is a basic right, and I sought to find a natural, innovative, and inexpensive solution to poor drinking water."
Rayson's journey included challenges common to students in rural areas, such as limited access to research materials. "The most challenging part of my research is always finding materials. As a high school student in a rural area, it is often difficult to find the necessary resources for a science fair project," she shares. This year, she partnered with the Water Research Lab at Lambton College to receive help with sampling.
For Rayson, the impact of the fair extends to creating life-long connections and professional opportunities. "Science fair offers an opportunity to meet professionals in fields and allows students to learn about potential job opportunities. I have found that science and innovation sparks lifelong curiosity and allows students to find their passions. Most of all, science and innovation creates vital critical thinking and communication skills that are useful in all facets of life."
Rayson looks forward to the active discussion that occurs during the judging process. "I look forward to presenting my research in front of the judges as it is a wonderful opportunity to engage in active discussion with professionals. Conversations like these are incredibly valuable for researchers because they allow us to explain our ideas, hear different perspectives, and receive meaningful feedback from people with experience in the field."
The fair has also reshaped her daily perspective on problem-solving. "Preparing for science fair has changed the way I look at everyday problems and the world around me by forcing me to view every obstacle as a specific series of problems to be solved, rather than an insurmountable problem. For instance, if a plant in my house starts dying, I think about variables like water, sunlight, and soil conditions and try adjusting them to see what improves its growth."
The Lambton County Science Fair invites the community to witness this ingenuity firsthand. Mark your calendars for April 10 and 11 at Lambton College to support the next big breakthroughs starting right here in Sarnia-Lambton.
