At NatMatSci, STEM is not just studied in the classroom. It is explored, questioned, tested, and communicated in ways that mirror real world scientific practice. Our 2026 Academic Poster Conference is a celebration of this approach, bringing together research, reasoning, and communication in a dynamic and engaging event.
Independent research in action
Our annual poster conference is open to current parents, prospective families, academics, researchers, and anyone with an interest in how scientific thinking is developed at pre university level. It offers a valuable opportunity to see how students grow into confident, independent thinkers who can approach complex problems with structure and curiosity.
Our A Level students take centre stage at the event, presenting the outcomes of their independent research projects through academic posters. Each poster represents a full research journey, from the initial formulation of a question through to the final conclusions.
Students will explain how they developed their ideas, designed their methodologies, gathered and analysed data, and interpreted their results. This process highlights not only their subject knowledge but also their ability to think critically, evaluate evidence, and refine their approach as their understanding develops.
One example from this years poster conference is the work of Anson and Winston, who investigated The Effect of Geometry on Aerodynamic Drag Coefficient. Their project explores how shape and design influence aerodynamic performance, demonstrating the impact of geometry on drag through careful testing and analysis. It is an excellent example of clear scientific thinking, curiosity, and confident communication in action.
Want to hear Anson and Winston explain their research for themselves? Hit play. 🔬
A space for dialogue and discovery
The poster conference is designed to be interactive. Attendees are encouraged to engage directly with students, asking questions and exploring the decisions behind their work. These discussions often focus on research methods, assumptions, and interpretations, reflecting how real scientific work is reviewed and developed.
This dialogue is a key part of the experience. It gives students the chance to articulate their thinking clearly and confidently, while visitors gain insight into the depth and rigour involved in pre university STEM research.
Developing essential future skills
Beyond the research itself, the poster conference showcases the broader skills our students are developing. Communication, analytical thinking, problem solving, and resilience are all at the heart of the experience.
By presenting their work in a professional format and responding to questions from a diverse audience, students learn how to share complex ideas with clarity and precision. These are skills that are essential for further study, higher education, and future careers in STEM fields and beyond.
Download our 2026 Poster Conference Booklet here And explore this year’s full collection of student posters.
Published Papers
We are particularly proud of the dedication, curiosity, and academic excellence shown by our students whose independent research has progressed to publication. Their work reflects a strong commitment to advancing knowledge and engaging with real world scientific ideas at a high level.
Among these achievements, Khanh successfully published her STEM Communicators research project following a rigorous in house viva and peer review process. Her paper explored the emerging field of topical vaccines using genetically modified skin bacteria, comparing findings from animal model studies with traditional injected vaccines while carefully evaluating benefits and potential side effects.
Justin also published a research paper through our award winning STEM Communication Programme in the International Journal of Social Sciences and Economic Review (IJSSER). His work examined the Cap and Trade system, identifying key areas for improvement and proposing an innovative dual market model designed to increase private sector participation and strengthen environmental outcomes.
Ayden’s research into economic institutions was also published in the International Journal of Social Sciences and Economic Review (IJSSER). As part of his project, he developed his own Inclusivity Index, analysing data from 122 countries and applying regression techniques to investigate how inclusiveness related to income levels and GDP growth. It was an exceptionally impressive piece of research.
Join us
Curious about life at NatMatSci? Did you know, we have been ranked among the top 3 schools in the UK for A-Level results 2025. You can sign up to our next Virtual Open Day, on the 9th June, using the form below:
