Challenge teams build real computational models on problems they care about — then present that work at Expo. These examples show the range of student projects and what presentation day looks like.
Spotlight projects
Simulating the Brain’s Visual Cortex
A finalist team built a computational model to explore how the visual cortex processes information — the kind of rigorous, measurable science Challenge projects aim for.
Finalist Team Project Display
Teams develop a visual identity for their project alongside models, code, and reports — then present months of work to judges and peers at Expo.
Finalist Teams at Expo
Each year, finalist teams from across New Mexico display project banners and presentations covering topics from ecology and physics to data science and public policy.
Presenting Computational Science
Students explain their models, assumptions, and results to mentors and judges — practicing the same communication skills used in university and industry research.
At Expo and Awards Ceremony
Expo week is where teams showcase finished projects. Photos below are from recent ceremonies and presentations — browse final reports for the full scientific write-ups.
Find more examples
- Final reports from recent seasons — searchable team projects with PDFs
- Season archive — proposals, reports, and materials from past years
- Project ideas by topic — starter prompts across eight subject areas