Each summer 100+ youths attend Young Nebraska Scientists (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. Early application deadline is May 1 for YNS camps. Need-based scholarships are readily available.
Applications are open for Young Nebraska Scientists (YNS) camps throughout the state in 2026, including the following in Lincoln:
HIGH SCHOOL CAMPS
• Explorations in Biology, June 22-25 at Nebraska Wesleyan University, Grades 9-11
• Snack Attack: Apple Edition, July 22-23, Food Innovative Center (UNL/Innovation Campus), Grades 9-11
• Rise & Grind: A Wheat Tale, June 16-19, Food Innovation Center (UNL/Innovation Campus, Lincoln), Grades*
ONE-DAY FOOD SCIENCE CAMPS
• Science of Ice Cream: May 28, Food Innovation Center – Lincoln (Nebraska Innovation Campus), Grades*
• Science of Chocolate: June 30, Food Innovation Center - Lincoln (Nebraska Innovation Campus), Grades*
*Priority application for high-schoolers; after May 1, middle-schoolers may apply.
YNS is conducted by Nebraska Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) with support from the National Science Foundation (NSF), to encourage youth participation in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) learning and careers. NSF support helps keep YNS camp fees low (need-based scholarships are available); faculty from Nebraska colleges and universities are camp leaders, and camp staff include university students. For information and to apply online, visit http://yns.nebraska.edu.