Science Students Share Research at 2025 Heartland Junior Science and Humanities Symposium

February 26, 2025

Allison Knipper was one of fifteen presenters chosen from across Iowa and Nebraska for this year’s 2025 Heartland Regional Junior Science and Humanities Symposium held in Ames, Iowa February 24^th and 25^th. Allison presented her work entitled, “Physical and Mechanical Properties of Hydroponic Alternatives Utilizing Novel 3D Printed Structures” to a panel of judges and an audience of peers, experts, and educators in an oral presentation. In addition, Alexander Kerper and Valerie Rahe were two of the students accepted to present their individual research in the poster division of the symposium. Alexander presented, “Mechanical Properties of Kernza and Grain Flours in Relation to Food Preparation” and Valerie shared progress on, “Efficacy of Biosecurity Measures Related to Boot Hygiene for On Farm Veterinary Care.” The Heartland Junior Science and Humanities Symposium program is the premier high school science competition in Iowa/Nebraska. Students also had the opportunity to visit cutting-edge university research labs, hear from university researchers about their work and career paths, and network with their peers. The event was attended by additional Beckman students Brock Burlage, Brynn Burlage, Vivienne Rahe, Reese Reitzler, and Andrea Schneider and research mentor Cheryl Kluesner.