The CSFJ aims to inspire scientific research in children and youth by fostering an inclusive online community of young scientific minds stretching from coast to coast to coast.

What is the CSFJ?

The Canadian Science Fair Journal is an online, open-access journal that showcases science projects conducted and written by students from across the country. The journal was founded in 2017 by student researchers at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario who had been studying rates of scientific publication in younger generations and recognized a lack in accessible platforms for STEM-driven students to share and discuss their work.

Why is scientific publication important?

Extending the scientific discourse beyond the walls of the gymnasium or lab to a community of like-minded thinkers is a critical part of the research process. Scientific journals create spaces not only for scientists to share their hard work, but also for the discussion, networking, and learning that new knowledge can spark, and which are so central to translating knowledge into action. CSFJ strives to create an inclusive space for younger generations to appreciate their peers' work and share their passions while learning about responsible research, scientific writing, and the publication process.

All CSFJ articles are available online as accessible, open-source publications, and undergo formal review and copy editing by the journal’s editorial team. 

Mentorship

Our mentorship component offers students a unique opportunity to learn about peer-review and to receive constructive feedback on their work from experienced university mentors. Upon submitting their article, students are paired with an editor whose area of study matches the article topic.

Together, the student and their editor work to get the article ready for publication.

Goals

The CSFJ aims to:

• Foster collaboration and community among young like-minded scientists.

• Promote the work of young scientists by providing an open-source medium for the dissemination and appreciation of science projects conducted by children and youth.

• Transcend geographical, financial, and socio-cultural barriers by providing an accessible, indiscriminate, and inclusive space for engaging in scientific discussion.

• Teach principles of scientific journalism by introducing children and youth to the peer review and editing processes that entail publication.

• Cultivate an early understanding of the scientific method, responsible research, and manuscript writing by providing online and classroom tools.

• Nurture early interests in STEM by encouraging scientific innovation, exploration, and discovery.