Montville High Student Takes 2nd at Science and Humanities Symposium

Junior, Paige Hammell, of Montville Township High School [MTHS] took second in Oral Presentations at the Northern New Jersey Junior Science and Humanities Symposium [JSHS] last week at Rutgers University.

Hammell, a second year participate in the innovative Science Research Program at MTHS, presented her research, “Resistance of Long-term Survival Phase Cells to Oxidative Stress.”

The young scientist received a prize of $1,500 and will compete at the 52nd National JSHS in Washington, D.C.

The National JSHS is a prestigious competition where students of science, technology, engineering, and math [STEM] present the results of their original research before a panel of judges and an audience of their peers. Students compete for scholarships and recognition.

The National JSHS is sponsored by the Army, Navy and Air Force in cooperation with universities and colleges nationwide.

Under the direction of science teachers, Rachel Salazar and Dorine Starace, MTHS introduced the Science Research Program last year. The program is designed by the State University of New York College of Arts and Sciences University at Albany [SUNY].

Schools participating in the Science Research Program follow a SUNY endorsed science research course curricula. Teachers are intensively trained by SUNY for this unique research initiative. In turn, students are also intensively trained in scientific research. Working with a mentor from their chosen fields of study, students construct original research projects, conduct their studies and record and present their findings.

The 52nd National JSHS will begin April 23 in Washington D.C. In addition to presenting her original research and competing for scholarships and recognition, Hammell will have the opportunity to visit research labs and participate in hands-on workshops and panel discussions. She will also have career exploration and networking opportunities.