STEM in Academia Conference Highlights University Research, Careers, and Innovation in New Jersey
- Gov STEM Scholars
- 13 hours ago
- 4 min read
On Saturday, December 6, the Governor’s STEM Scholars convened at Princeton University for the annual STEM in Academia Conference, an immersive, full-day introduction to the careers, research, and innovation taking place across New Jersey’s institutions of higher education. The event brought together more than 100 high school and college Scholars to learn directly from leading faculty, researchers, and public officials shaping the state’s innovation ecosystem.
Designed to demystify the academic career path, the conference highlighted the many roles scientists and engineers hold in higher education—from research and teaching to technology commercialization and public engagement. Throughout the day, Scholars gained firsthand exposure to the work being done inside university laboratories, classrooms, and innovation centers across New Jersey.
“This conference didn’t just teach me about STEM as a field — it showed me how STEM is applied in the real world, especially in New Jersey’s innovation economy," remarked a Scholar about the experience.
A Deep Dive Into Research and Discovery
The program began with Dr. C. Jessica Metcalf, Professor of Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, and Public Affairs at Princeton University. Dr. Metcalf shared her research on pathogen transmission and explained how data-driven scholarship informs global public health decisions. Her talk illustrated the power of interdisciplinary STEM research and showed Scholars how university-based science can protect communities and reshape policy.
Panel: The Many Faces of Academic STEM Careers
Dr. Kauser Jahan of Rowan University, Dr. Lauren Seyler of Stockton University, and Dr. Eusebio “EZ” Pires of Rutgers University share insights on academic career pathways during the STEM in Academia panel.
A multi-institution faculty panel followed, featuring Dr. Kauser Jahan of Rowan University, Dr. Eusebio “EZ” Pires of Rutgers University, and Dr. Lauren Seyler of Stockton University. Together, they demonstrated the breadth of careers available within academia, from teaching and mentorship to research, industry partnerships, and technology transfer. Their discussion underscored that New Jersey’s colleges and universities are not only places of learning—they are dynamic centers of innovation and opportunity.
New Jersey’s Innovation Landscape
Dr. Craig Arnold, Princeton’s Vice Dean for Innovation and University Innovation Officer, offered Scholars a candid look at how ideas move from academic labs into products, startups, and global technologies. He emphasized that New Jersey’s universities—and the talent they develop—play a central role in sustaining the state’s identity as the Innovation State.
Insights Into the College Admissions Process
In addition to exploring academic research and career pathways, Scholars also gained valuable guidance on navigating higher education from Glenn Kontor, Assistant Director of Admission at Princeton University. Kontor provided an inside look at the admissions process at highly selective institutions, sharing strategies for building strong applications, communicating authentic interests, and demonstrating readiness for rigorous STEM study. His session equipped Scholars with practical advice for charting their academic futures and highlighted the opportunities available at New Jersey’s world-class universities.
Keynote Address: A Nobel Laureate’s Journey
The conference culminated with a keynote from Dr. David MacMillan, 2021 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry and Princeton University professor. Dr. MacMillan shared his research in asymmetric organocatalysis and the journey that led to his Nobel Prize. His remarks encouraged Scholars to pursue questions with curiosity and resilience, reminding them that groundbreaking discoveries often begin with simple ideas explored deeply.
“This will perhaps be my favorite conference. The people I met and the things I learned are experiences I will carry with me throughout my education and career. As someone deeply interested in chemistry, meeting and talking to a Nobel Prize winner in the field and even getting to hold the medal was beyond anything I could have imagined. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and everything GSS has to offer,” said a 2026 Governor's STEM Scholar.
Hands-On Academic Exploration
Governor’s STEM Scholars participate in hands-on STEM classes led by Princeton Women in Chemistry, Dr. Nidhal Bouaynaya of Rowan University, and Senator Andrew Zwicker, Ph.D., of the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, exploring pathways that connect academic research to real-world impact. In the afternoon, Scholars participated in specialized STEM classes that showcased different facets of academic work. Dr. Nidhal Bouaynaya of Rowan University introduced students to artificial intelligence and machine learning, breaking down complex concepts into real-world applications. Senator Andrew Zwicker, Ph.D., who also serves at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, explored how scientific research intersects with public policy and innovation. Meanwhile, Princeton Women in Chemistry led interactive sessions on representation and leadership in the sciences, emphasizing the importance of diversity in academic pathways.
These sessions allowed Scholars to experience the excitement of conducting research, think like scientists, and ask meaningful questions—providing an authentic look into the daily work of STEM faculty and researchers. One the Scholars remarked about the STEM classes: “The experience seemed almost surreal. Every speaker piqued my interest and left me inspired.”
STEM and Public Service
The day concluded with an “In Conversation” session featuring Senator Zwicker and Kayleigh Lavornia, his Chief of Staff, who shared why scientists are essential in policymaking. They discussed the importance of evidence-based decision-making and encouraged Scholars to consider civic leadership as part of their STEM journeys.
Inspiring New Jersey’s Next Generation of Innovators
The STEM in Academia Conference offered Scholars an unprecedented look at higher education in New Jersey, reinforcing that the state’s colleges and universities are not only places to learn, but places where innovation begins, careers are launched, and ideas transform the world.
As one of four Governor’s STEM Scholars conferences held throughout the year, STEM in Academia plays a critical role in preparing Scholars to engage with New Jersey’s STEM economy and pursue future careers within the state’s growing innovation ecosystem. The Governor’s STEM Scholars will continue their year-long journey with the next conference, STEM in Industry, taking place in March at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). This event will introduce Scholars to the companies, technologies, and entrepreneurs driving innovation across New Jersey’s private sector.