Campus and Community Involvement

Members of the SIU campus and the Carbondale community are invited to help welcome the Illinois Junior Academy of Science state competitors. There are many ways to be involved on Friday, April 24, and Saturday, April 25. Whether you are a student, faculty or staff member, or a proud member of the extended Saluki family, we welcome your help during this exciting event.

Be a Judge

SIU is seeking undergraduate/graduate students, faculty, staff, or community members to serve as judges. We will need over 200 judges for this event. It is a 3–4-hour time commitment on Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25. No prior experience is needed. You can select what areas you feel most comfortable judging and you will be teamed up with experienced judges. In addition, there is an orientation given to all judges before judging begins.

Please complete the form below to apply to be a judge. Please ensure you click yes to the question Are you affiliated with an IJAS member school or individual? and select Region 8 as the option. Forms must be submitted by Monday, April 13. Selected judges will receive notification of their assignment, along with further instructions.

Apply to serve as a judge for the IJAS State Science Fair

Host an Activity

Friday, April 24, from 5 pm - 9 pm, is a pizza party at the SIU Student Center. Colleges and schools, Registered Student Organizations, and other groups are invited to provide hands-on activities for the participating students highlighting what they have to offer. Free pizza and drinks for all volunteers.

Please complete the form below to request space for an activity by Monday, April 13. Space must be staffed for the entire time frame (5 pm - 9 pm).

SIU Department / Org. Involvement Request form

Volunteer

SIU is seeking volunteers to assist with the Science Fair. Volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks, primarily welcoming students and their family/supporters, answering questions, and providing assistance. Volunteer opportunities are open to anyone: students, faculty/staff, alumni, or community members.

Please wear a maroon SIU/Saluki shirt when volunteering. You are welcome to wear apparel representing your college, school, or organization.

Volunteer at the 2026 IJAS State Science Fair

Participate in a College /Department Fair

On Friday, April 24, from 9 am to 12 pm, colleges, schools, and other departments are invited to set up informational tables in the Banterra Center. Project setup and judging for the State Science Fair will take place that morning, bringing participants and their guests through the area. This provides a great opportunity to connect with attendees and share information about your programs and opportunities.

Please complete the form below to request space for a table by Monday, April 13.

SIU College/School/Org. Table Request Form