Applications are open for Young Nebraska Scientists (YNS) camps throughout the state in 2026, including middle and high school camps, and one-day food science camps. Apply online, and need-based scholarships to attend YNS camps are available in the application process. The early application deadline is May 1.
Middle school camps include:
- Secret Life of Metals (Chemistry Camp), July 27-29 at Creighton University in Omaha, Grades 6-8, Fee: $60, Commuter/Day.
- Nanoscience Camp, July 8-10 at Creighton University, Grades 6-8, Commuter/Day, free registration (limited spaces).
High school camps include:
- Biodiversity, June 14-20 at Cedar Point Biological Station at Lake Ogallala,170 Cedar Pt. Drive, Grades 9-11, Fee: $150, Residential
- Explorations in Biology, June 22-25 at Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln, Grades 9-11, Cost: $150, Residential
- Snack Attack: Apple Edition, July 22-23, Food Innovation Center, 1901 N 21st St., Grades 9-11, Cost: $40, Commuter/Day
- Rise & Grind: A Wheat Tale, June 16-19, Food Innovation Center, Grades: Priority application for high-schoolers; after May 1, middle-schoolers may apply, Cost: $150, Commuter/Day
One-day food science camps include:
- Science of Ice Cream: May 28, Food Innovation Center, Grades: Priority application for high-schoolers; after May 1, middle-schoolers may apply, Cost: $20, Commuter/Day
- Science of Chocolate: June 30, Food Innovation Center, Grades: Priority application for high-schoolers; after May 1, middle-schoolers may apply, Cost: $20, Commuter/Day
Each summer 100+ youths attend YNS camps, which include hands-on science experiences and recreation opportunities at college campuses throughout Nebraska. YNS camp fees include meals and lodging for residential camps. Day camps are also available.
YNS is conducted by Nebraska EPSCoR with support from the National Science Foundation, to encourage youth participation in science, technology, engineering and math learning and careers. NSF support helps keep YNS camp fees low. Faculty from Nebraska colleges and universities are camp leaders, and camp staff include university students.
For information and to apply online, visit the YNS website.
Photo caption: In a lab, a boy and a girl work with science flasks containing colored liquids while other students gather at a table in the background during a Young Nebraska Scientists summer camp.