Third Findings from the Field Student Research Symposium Held in Portland, Maine

Third Annual ‘Findings from the Field’ Symposium Empowers Young Scientists

Portland, Maine — On March 30, 2026, the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) and the NASA Science Activation program's Learning Ecosystems Northeast (LENE) project hosted the third annual Findings from the Field Student Research Symposium. The event, held at Unum's office, marked a significant milestone for the growing program.

The symposium brought together a diverse and engaged community:

• 106 students (grades four through eight)
• 29 educators
• 15 Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)
• 68 research posters presented
• 14 lightning talks delivered
• 5 discussion sessions held

"Science is a team sport." — Dr. Dave Reidmiller, Chief Impact Officer at GMRI, in his keynote address.

The symposium was designed to place students at the center of the scientific conversation. Key activities included:

• Data as a Dynamic Conversation: Students participated in a data-marking activity inspired by the Data Vandals art group.
• Professional Positioning: In discussion groups, students sat at the main table while adults and SMEs sat behind them, underscoring the students’ roles as professionals.
• Peer-to-Peer Mentorship: Undergraduate students served as bridges between younger students and career scientists.

Student confidence was on full display. During one discussion, a student directly answered a question posed to an SME, demonstrating deep expertise and self-assurance.

Originally hosted at GMRI, the symposium was moved to a larger venue at Unum’s office to accommodate its rapid growth. Feedback from attendees indicated strong interest in future participation.

Students presented their research posters to peers and professional scientists, including leaders from the Maine Forest Service and NASA-affiliated researchers. The event not only showcased scientific inquiry but also cultivated the next generation of environmental stewards.