World's Largest Science Fair Scheduled for Pittsburgh in 2012, 2015 & 2018 - Attracts Students From 50 Countries

Pittsburgh has been selected to host the world's largest science fair, which attracts more than 1,500 high school students from over 50 countries competing for more than $4 million in prizes, not once but three times in the next decade, the Society for Science & the Public has announced.

The Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) will come to Pittsburgh in 2012, 2015 and 2018, the SSP said. The ISEF is held in mid-May. Other host cities include Los Angeles and Phoenix.

The Intel ISEF is the world’s largest international precollege science competition. Exclusively for students in grades 9–12, it is the most prestigious forum to showcase independent research.

In addition to the direct impact of the Intel ISEF on each city -- with an estimated 5,000 registrants, including competing students and PhD level judges -- the event will provide a unique opportunity for local residents to interact with top young science researchers and innovators from around the globe, according to the SSP.

"In selecting these cities, Society for Science & the Public and Intel are honored to build on their rich traditions as leaders in science and technology," said Elizabeth Marincola, president of Society for Science & the Public.

"Working on an ongoing basis with local science communities,in Los Angeles, Pittsburgh, and Phoenix will enable us to harness their resources -- and the inspiration of the Intel ISEF -- to promote science education and advance independent student research locally and globally. As hosts of the Intel ISEF, these cities will unite the world’s top young scientists, showcasing the quality and depth of student research to advance the future of our planet and our society."

The Society for Science & the Public, a nonprofit organization dedicated to public engagement in scientific research and education, owns and has administered the International Science and Engineering Fair since its inception in 1950. Each year, millions of students worldwide compete in local and school-sponsored science fairs; the winners of these events go on to participate in Intel ISEF-affiliated national, regional, and state fairs from which the best win the opportunity to attend the Intel ISEF.

To learn more about the organization and its programs and publications, visit www.societyforscience.org.