July 16–18, 2026
Atlanta, Georgia
Hosted in collaboration with:
Fulton Science Academy
Tech North Atlanta
Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)
About the Conference
The 2026 NCSS Student Leadership & Research Conference builds on a strong tradition of student research while intentionally expanding its focus to include leadership development and entrepreneurship. This year’s program connects rigorous research to collaboration, communication, innovation, and real-world impact within STEM.
In addition to presenting original research, students will engage in STEM leadership sessions, entrepreneurship-focused programming, conversations with active researchers, and visits to leading university research facilities. This expanded experience is designed to deepen students’ understanding of research, leadership, and entrepreneurship—and to help them see their role in shaping the future of STEM.
STEM Research Presentations
Hosted at Fulton Science Academy
Students will present their original research during two structured presentation sessions (Group 1 and Group 2). This format ensures that while one group presents, the other group engages as active participants—creating a dynamic environment of dialogue, inquiry, and peer learning throughout the day.
During the sessions, students will discuss their research with fellow participants as well as with invited professionals, educators, and subject-matter experts. Presenters will receive thoughtful questions, constructive feedback, and professional guidance designed to strengthen both the depth of their research and the clarity of their communication.
The day will begin with a keynote research presentation that sets a high academic tone and highlights the broader significance of rigorous student scholarship. In addition, students will learn from the nationally recognized Fulton Science Academy Astronomy Society, whose work exemplifies sustained research engagement and scientific curiosity.
More than a showcase, these sessions are designed to help students refine their thinking, strengthen their presentation skills, and experience research as a collaborative and evolving process.
STEM Innovators and Entrepreneurship Forum
Hosted at Tech North Atlanta
Students will participate in a STEM Innovators & Entrepreneurship Forum and interactive Q&A session designed to explore how research translates into innovation and real-world impact.
Through conversations with entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and innovation professionals, students will examine:
- Research-to-startup pathways
- The structure and dynamics of innovation ecosystems
- Leadership within STEM industries
- How ideas move from laboratory discovery to practical application
This forum intentionally bridges research excellence with entrepreneurial thinking. Students will gain insight into how scientific curiosity, problem-solving, and leadership converge within modern innovation environments.
By engaging directly with professionals operating in active technology and startup ecosystems, students will begin to see how their own research can extend beyond the classroom and contribute to meaningful societal impact.
STEM Leadership & Research Immersion
Hosted at Georgia Tech Research Institute
Students will engage in a university-level STEM research immersion experience at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI), gaining firsthand exposure to applied research at one of the nation’s leading technological institutions.
The program will include:
- An overview of GTRI’s mission and role in advancing applied scientific research
- Guided visits to active research laboratories:
- Exploration of the Agricultural Research Program
- Advanced Manufacturing Facility
- Human Augmentation Lab
- Robotherium
This immersive experience is designed to help students understand how rigorous research operates within real-world contexts—where scientific inquiry intersects with engineering, policy, and industry.
More than observation, this component provides students with insight into how research institutions translate ideas into solutions that address complex global challenges. Students will leave with a clearer understanding of what it means to lead in STEM at the university and professional levels.
Conference Schedule
Thursday, July 16, 2026
- 6:00 PM – Campus Tour at Fulton Science Academy
- 6:30 PM – Welcome Dinner
Fulton Science Academy Cafeteria - 6:45 PM – Student Presentation
FSA Astronomy Society Student Leaders - 7:45 PM – Return to Hotels
Friday, July 17, 2026
- Breakfast – At Hotel
- 8:30 AM – Research Poster Setup
- 9:00 AM – Welcome Remarks
- 9:05 AM – Keynote Research Presentation by FSA Alumnus: Raja Selvakumar
- 9:45 AM – Coffee Break
- 10:00 AM – Group 1: Student Research Presentations
- 11:15 AM – Coffee & Snack Break
- 12:00 PM – Lunch
- 1:00 PM – Group 2: Student Research Presentations
- 3:00 PM – Break
- 3:15 PM – Transportation to Tech North Atlanta
- 3:30 PM – STEM Innovators & Entrepreneurship Forum and Q&A
- 5:00 PM – Transportation to Fulton Science Academy
- 5:30 PM – Dinner at Fulton Science Academy
Saturday, July 18, 2026
- Breakfast – At Hotel
- 8:30 AM – Transportation to Georgia Tech
- 9:15 AM – Student STEM Leadership & Research Immersion at Georgia Tech Research Institute
- Mission and Vision of Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI)
- GTRI Labs Visit
- Agricultural Research Program
- Advanced Manufacturing Facility
- Human Augmentation Lab
- Robotherium
- 12:00 PM – Lunch
- 12:30 PM – Closing Ceremony
- 1:00 PM – Conference Conclusion
Registration Information
Registration is open for the 2026 NCSS Student Leadership & Research Conference for students in grades 8–12.
Priority Registration
Priority registration is reserved for NCSS Member Schools through March 15, 2026.
Beginning March 16, 2026, registration will open to non-NCSS schools, space permitting.
Registration Fee:
- NCSS Member Schools: $50 per student
- Non-NCSS Member Schools: $100 per student
Registration Fee Includes:
- Conference participation and programming
- Student research presentation sessions
- STEM Leadership & Entrepreneurship Forum
- Georgia Tech Research Immersion experience
- Scheduled meals listed in the conference agenda
- Group transportation to official conference venues (including Georgia Tech and Tech North Atlanta)
Not Included in Registration Fee:
- Transportation to and from Atlanta Airport
- Hotel accommodations
- Meals not listed in the conference schedule
- Personal expenses
Recognition
All participating students will receive an official Certificate of Participation recognizing their:
- Presentation of original research
- Engagement in STEM leadership programming
- Participation in the Entrepreneurship Forum
- Completion of the Georgia Tech Research Immersion experience
This certificate affirms each student’s meaningful academic engagement and active participation in a multi-dimensional STEM experience that integrates research, leadership, and innovation.
Accommodations
There are two hotel options for conference attendees.
A hotel block has been reserved at each hotel, offering a discounted group rate for conference attendees.
Option A:
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Alpharetta
Address: 12655 Deerfield Parkway Alpharetta, Georgia, USA, 30004
Rate: $169/night
Room Type: Queen/Queen
Click HERE to book a room in our hotel block using the group rate*
Deadline to book with special group rate: Thursday, June 18, 2026
*Breakfast buffet for up to four people is included in this room rate.
Option B:
Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Alpharetta
Address: 5955 North Point Parkway Alpharetta, Georgia 30022 USA
Rate: $185/night
Room Type: Queen/Queen
Click HERE to book a room in our hotel block using the group rate.*
Deadline to book with special group rate: Tuesday, June 16, 2026
*Breakfast is included in this room rate.