Volunteer

Together, our volunteers create meaningful connections that help students learn, grow, and imagine what’s possible. Whether sharing expertise, offering feedback, lending a hand at a fair, or simply encouraging a student to keep exploring, everyone has a role to play. 

To stay updated on MSEF news and opportunities, join our mailing list for MSEF Insider!

Help students take their research one step further. 

Fair judges meet students, hear about their original research, ask questions, and provide valuable feedback using MSEF’s judging rubrics. Judges serve at Middle or High School Regional and State Fairs and typically commit 4-6 hours. 

STEM professionals from a wide range of fields are encouraged to participate. Training is provided. 

Learn more & sign up 

Help students begin their research safely and successfully.

The Statewide Scientific Review Committee brings together STEM professionals, educators, and researchers with a range of subject-area expertise to review student project plans for safety and scientific integrity.

This role is fully remote and offers flexible scheduling. Recruitment needs vary by subject area and support either Middle School or High School projects. The SRC operates between September and March each year. Reviewers should be based in Massachusetts and be comfortable with technology.

Email us with your name, experience, and interest at info@scifair.com 

Coaching and Feedback

Be a sounding board as students turn questions into research.

Project Coaches provide targeted feedback to a student or team as they define the scope of a project, work through their research, or prepare to present their findings. A coaching conversation may be a one-time, one-hour commitment or develop into additional sessions when helpful.

Most coaching is virtual. One-on-one volunteers must complete a CORI background check and are generally expected to be based in Massachusetts or the surrounding area.

Sign-up starts soon

Practice Presentation Volunteers 

As part of our coaching program, Presentation Practice Volunteers serve as a confidence boost for high school students as they practice explaining their research. Volunteers focus on presentation style, communication, and responding to questions – not the scientific content of the project.

Approximately 2 hours in late winter/early spring. A STEM background is not required.  

Registration opens in January

Student Symposium Volunteers

MSEF is inviting volunteers to support various parts of our 3rd Annual Student Symposium on October 3rd at MIT. Limited opportunities available to recent MSEF alum, current grad or undergrad students who want to showcase their projects to students, or community groups who have resources or inspiring content to share. Email student@scifair.com with questions.

Fair Day Volunteers

Help make fair day a welcoming, exciting experience for every student.

Day-of volunteers keep our fairs running smoothly and help create the supportive environment students deserve as they share their work. Roles range from check-in and information desks to project-area support, judge assistance, and student lunch.

No science background is required, and there are opportunities for individuals and groups.

Opportunities posted in February, March, and April. Email info@scifair.com with questions.

Want to support your local regional fair? Go to www.scifair.com/regionalfairs to connect.