What is the PennScience High School Journal?
Run by a student organization at the University of Pennsylvania, PSHSJ is an open-access journal where high school students submit original science research that are reviewed by Penn students and faculty.
What types of research does PennScience accept?
PennScience accepts maximum 5 page manuscripts, excluding references, of original research in the social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.
Can my research have multiple authors?
Yes, you may list up to three secondary authors when submitting the paper; however, only submit the paper through the primary author. You may list any non-high school contributors under teacher/mentor information in the submission form.
How many teachers/mentors can I list?
In the submission form, you may list up to two teachers/mentors who played a part in your project. Teachers and mentors will not be listed as authors, but rather mentioned in the “Acknowledgments” section of the paper.
Can my research be conducted in a lab?
Yes! PennScience accepts original, high school-led science research conducted in any setting.
What citation style should I use?
PennScience provides style guidelines found here that includes information such as font, spacing, margins, and citation style. All references should be formatted in APA (7th edition).
When can I submit my paper?
The submission form opens in May and will close on November 1st at 11:59 PM EST. Papers can be submitted any time during this range, but no late submissions will be accepted. There is no advantage to papers being submitted early as they are not reviewed on a rolling basis.
What do I need to submit when submitting my paper?
You must submit a total of three files: your manuscript, which should include your figures, a separate .pptx file of only your figures, and the “Publication Permission Form.” This form requires that all authors and a mentor/teacher (if applicable) recognize the terms and guidelines for publishing in PennScience.
Can I still use my research for other publications and science fairs?
Yes! We understand the desire to use data for science competitions and other publications, as our goal is not to limit students. As outlined in the “Publication Permission Form,” the only restriction is, if accepted, one may not submit to journals that restrict your ability to publish in PennScience.
If I just graduated, but my research was conducted while in high school, can I still submit my manuscript?
Yes, PennScience requires the research to be conducted by students while in high school. Students who just graduated may still submit research that was completed in high school; however, any students who graduated more than a year before the submission deadline are not eligible to submit their research.
When should I expect to hear back from PennScience?
PennScience publishes annually and conducts a thorough review process for every paper, which takes time. All submitting authors will receive results at the same time by mid-February. If accepted, expect constant communication until publication by mid-April with editors.
Is the PennScience High School Journal affiliated with PennScience Journal for Undergraduate Research?
Yes, PennScience is the broader organization in which there is both an undergraduate and high school division. To learn more about the undergraduate journal, visit here.
Where can I learn more?
Explore our website further or contact us at support@pshsj.org.