The Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) is a statewide scientific research competition that encourages middle and high school students in Pennsylvania to design, conduct, and present original scientific investigations. Students carry out independent or small-group projects in fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, engineering, and mathematics, then present their work orally to a panel of judges at regional competitions. Participants who earn top scores at the regional level are invited to present at the annual PJAS State Meeting, traditionally held at Penn State University’s University Park campus. PJAS is open to students in grades 7–12 who attend participating schools or are sponsored by a PJAS-affiliated region. Through the program, students gain experience in the full scientific process, develop formal presentation and communication skills, receive feedback from scientists and educators, and can earn awards, recognition, and sometimes scholarships based on their performance.