The American Junior Academy of Science (AJAS) is a national honor society of the National Association of Academies of Science (NAAS) that recognizes high school students from across the country for their scientific research. It meets each year in conjunction with its affiliate, the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the world’s largest science organization and publisher of Science magazine. In a typical year, AJAS delegates share their work through both a 10-minute oral presentation and an afternoon poster session. They also have the exciting opportunity to interact with professional scientists, meet with fellow high school researchers from all over the country, attend AAAS lectures, and visit nearby sites of scientific interest. The AJAS convention differs from other scientific gatherings in its emphasis on the sharing of research, not on competition. 

The 2026 AJAS and AAAS convention will take place in Phoenix, AZ, on February 11–14, 2026. The format will be in person, and students selected to attend the AJAS convention will be expected to raise funds to cover the cost of attending the conference (around $1,200 for registration, travel, and a shared hotel room). If awarded, you may register by November 24, 2025 at the 2026 AJAS conference website.