The Columbia Young Scientists (CYS) Fair and Expo is an annual event hosted by The Connector, promotes STEM for people of all ages by connecting youth and families with science and technology research on the University of Missouri campus .

The CYS Expo provides an opportunity for the public to engage with hands on STEM programs.  Science enthusiasts of all ages can explore a variety of booths featuring research and technology activities from scientists in Missouri. Presenters include university, local, and state scientists, organizations, and clubs.

Upcoming Events

Saturday, March 9, 2024

Memorial Union University of Missouri

1:00 – 4:30 pm

Sensory friendly hour 1:00 – 2:00pm

About

For Participants

The Columbia Young Scientists (CYS) Fair and Expo promotes STEM for people of all ages by connecting youth and families with science and technology research on the University of Missouri campus. The annual event consists of a two-part science fair and expo. The CYS Fair, in partnership with the Mid-Missouri Co-op of Home Educators (CHE), showcases science projects of K-12 home school students. Youth participate in conference judging with campus researchers in three age categories: Kindergarten-2nd grade, 3rd-5th grade, and 6th-8th grade, with additional opportunities for high school students. Judging begins at 9:00 am on the second floor of Memorial Union. Participants should pre-register with Mid-Missouri CHE and will receive instruction prior to judging.

The CYS Expo provides an opportunity for the public to engage with hands on STEM programs.  Science enthusiasts of all ages can explore a variety of booths featuring research and technology activities from scientists in Missouri. The Expo will run from 1:00-4:30pm with a sensory friendly hour from 1:00 – 2:00pm. All ages are welcome to participate in this free event. Advanced registration is not required. Visit the welcome table when you arrive to participate in a scavenger hunt. Parking is available in Hitt Street and University Ave parking garage.  For more information contact Christal Huber at hubercd@missouri.edu.

For Researchers

We are seeking partners to provide hands on STEM engagement activities to families at the CYS Fair and Expo. Vendors will be provided with an 8 foot booth space including a table and two chairs. You may request multiple booths or electricity. Set up will be from 12:30pm-1:00pm the event will run from 1:00pm-4:30pm with a sensory friendly hour from 1:00pm-2:00pm.  A zoom training will be provided to share more information on elements of sensory friendly activities. Volunteers are also needed 9:00 am to 12:00pm to judge science fair projects. For more information or to reserve your booth space by February 11th contact Christal Huber at hubercd@missouri.edu.

For Sponsors

We are seeking Sponsors to help provide funding for aide in production of the event and are used towards space, supplies, and event day support. Contributions are available at a variety of levels. Click Sponsorship Levels for options on available sponsorship levels. To donate click donate here For more information or questions, please email Christal Huber at hubercd@missouri.edu.​

2024 event Sponsors

Interested in being a vendor for 2024?

We are seeking partners to provide hands on STEM engagement activities to families at the CYS EXPO. Are you interested in being a vendor for the upcoming Columbia Young Scientists Expo? Please contact the Connector, at theconnector@missouri.edu.

Email Program Coordinator

Past Events

March , 2023, Stotler Lounge in the Memorial Union, MU Campus

Approximately 600 people attended the 2023 Expo which boasted 35 different stations representing various campus departments and guests. Participants of various ages explored hands on activities exploring butterflies to molecular electricity. To read more about the event check out The Division of Research, Innovation and Impact’s feature article on the CYS Expo.

Thank you to our vendors!

  • Plant, Insect and Microbial Science
  • Chemical and Biomedical Engineering
  • Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
  • Chemistry
  • Eurofins
  • Archaeometry Laboratory MURR
  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Science on Wheels
  • Physics and Astronomy
  • Missouri Department of Conservation
  • Geological Sciences
  • Herpetological Society
  • Pathology and Anatomical Sciences
  • Green Earth Education
  • Columbia STEM alliance
  • Jefferson Middle School Zoo
  • Raptor Rehab

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