Volunteer

Support Student Learning

We have many opportunities for volunteers to support students!

Register directly for current opportunities below.

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

Fair Judge

Judges review student projects at the Regional and/or State Science Fairs (Middle and High School). They devote approximately 4-6 hours to review student presentations and assess students on the basis of provided rubrics. Feedback from STEM professionals is invaluable to students presenting their work.

Training will be provided.

Learn more at www.scifair.com/judge

Presentation Practice Coach

Serve as a sounding board for high school students practicing their presentations in advance of the State Fair. Feedback is provided on presentation style and communication skills, not project content. This is a 2 hour commitment in the late winter/early spring.

February 12, 2026
Learn more & sign-up here

 

Day-Of Fair Volunteers

Play a key role in creating a welcoming, organized, and inspiring experience for students as they present their original research. A variety of roles are available. No science background required!

This is NOT fair judge sign-up.

Day-of volunteer roles include:

Check-in Desk

Info Desk

Project Safety

Project Area Monitor

Judge Help Desk

Student Lunch Monitor

Learn more & sign-up here

Statewide Scientific Review Committee

MSEF relies on STEM professionals in academia, industry and current teachers with a range content expertise to support the SRC process for student projects across the state. The Scientific Review Committee reviews project plans and paperwork for safety and scientific integrity. This assignment is fully remote with work available on a flexible schedule.

Fall recruitment. Email info@scifair.com.

Current need is limited to behavioral and social science reviewers.

 

Project Coach

Students have questions! Volunteers serve as a sounding board, providing feedback to students who are identifying their project scope or in the midst of their research. This can be a one-hour commitment to either one student or team and may be recurring — supporting students through their research project and into their presentation preparation. Coaches help students envision their STEM futures.

This opportunity is primarily virtual but volunteers are expected to be in Massachusetts or the immediate surrounding area. Please note: all one-on-one mentors must complete a CORI background check.

Email student@scifair.com with questions

Coaching sign-up has closed for the 2026 Fair season. Sign up for the MSEF Insider to stay up to date on future opportunities.

 

Long-term Coaching

Coaches help students envision their STEM futures.

Most mentor relationships begin in the fall or early winter. We’ll match these students with volunteers based on subject area expertise, availability, and mentoring preferences. Please note: all one-on-one mentors must complete a CORI background check. Priority is given to Massachusetts based volunteers.

Not currently available.