Our Mission & Vision
Now experienced student researchers working in top labs nationwide, Exeter Biology Symposium is the launch pad that we wish we had had. Hoping to share our experience to provide the same opportunities for others, we created EBS to give every driven high school and middle school student the opportunity to take part in research.
The Problem We're Solving
Across the nation, talented high school and middle school students with a passion for biology face a frustrating catch-22 when trying to enter research: the already-rare research opportunities often end up in the hands of those with prior research experience. In other words, the very students who need a first opportunity are excluded from getting one.
We saw talented, curious peers who simply didn't know where to start — not because they lacked ability, but because no structured pathway existed for beginners. To remedy that, the Exeter Genetics and Biotech Club founded EBS: a symposium specifically for beginner researchers, built around the accessible and rigorous world of dry-lab biology: computational analysis, bioinformatics, statistical modeling, and systematic literature reviews.
What Is Dry-Lab Research?
Dry-lab research is biology conducted without a physical laboratory — using computers, databases, statistics, and published literature to answer scientific questions. It is rigorous, publishable, and increasingly essential in modern biology.
EBS is dry-lab only as it removes the primary barrier to entry for most students: access to physical lab equipment. Anyone with a computer and internet connection can begin doing meaningful biological research.
No Lab Required
All you need is a computer, an internet connection, and curiosity.
Real Science
Dry-lab research leads to peer-reviewed publications and is the foundation of modern genomics and systems biology.
Your Own Question
Students choose their own research question within any area of biology they find compelling.
How the Symposium Works
EBS is a one-day event combining research presentations and scientific discussion in a supportive, conference-style setting, held in-person and online.
Research & Preparation (Fall 2026 – Spring 2027)
Students receive resources and structured guidance to develop their research question, conduct their study, and prepare their presentation.
Abstract Submission (March 2027)
Participants submit a brief abstract summarizing their research question, methodology, and preliminary findings. All abstracts are reviewed before acceptance.
Symposium Day (Spring 2027)
Students present their work through poster presentations, in-person or online. Judges evaluate presentations and provide constructive written feedback.
Awards & Networking
The day concludes with an awards ceremony and open networking session, connecting students with researchers and industry professionals.
Presentation Formats
Poster Presentation
Students display their research on a physical poster and discuss their work with judges, peers, and attendees during a dedicated poster session. This is the primary format for EBS 2027.
Panel Discussion
A moderated discussion featuring invited researchers speaking about pathways into biological research — open to all attendees.
What We Stand For
Accessibility
Research should be open to everyone. We actively remove barriers — real and perceived — that prevent students from engaging with science.
Rigor
We hold student work to real scientific standards while providing the support needed to meet them. Beginner-friendly does not mean less rigorous.
Community
Science thrives through collaboration and discourse. EBS fosters a generous, collegial community where students learn as much from each other as from the researchers who take part.