Sciyinz Squad Competitions
- Requires Preregistration
- Grade Levels: 6-8, 9-12
- Content Themes: Human Endeavors, Engineering & Technology, Mathematics
Sciyinz Squad Competitions
If it can be dreamt, it can be built.
SciYinz Squad competitions are fun, team-based challenges for Grades 6-12 students that foster creativity and collaboration while exploring key scientific principles across STEM fields. All materials for the Judo Bot competition are provided by the Science Center, so no prep is needed from teachers or parents. The Chain Reaction Competition (Grades 9-12) does require advanced preparation.
A Turn-Key Experience
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SciYinz Squad competitions offer a simplified experience, allowing teachers and students to focus on science and teamwork.
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Awards are presented at the end of each competition, adding excitement to the competition.
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The competitions align with Pennsylvania’s STEELS Standards, which encourage students to question, investigate, and make evidence-based conclusions.
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Competitions occur throughout the school year.
Current Competition Schedule
The following SciYinz Squad competitions are scheduled on-site at Kamin Science Center this academic year.
Judo-Bot Rumble: Dec. 3, 2026 (Grades 6-8) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Chain Reaction: Dec. 4, 2026 (Grades 9-12) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Chain Reaction: Feb. 4, 2027 (Grades 9-12) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Judo-Bot Rumble: Feb. 5, 2027 (Grades 6-8) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Current Competition Schedule
The following SciYinz Squad competitions are scheduled on-site at Kamin Science Center this academic year.
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Judo-Bot Rumble: Dec. 3, 2026 (Grades 6-8) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
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Chain Reaction: Dec. 4, 2026 (Grades 9-12) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
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Chain Reaction: Feb. 4, 2027 (Grades 9-12) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
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Judo-Bot Rumble: Feb. 5, 2027 (Grades 6-8) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
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Chain Reaction – Dec. 5, 2025 (Grades 9-12) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
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Judo-Bot Rumble – Feb. 26, 2026 (Grades 6-8) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
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Judo-Bot Rumble – Feb. 27, 2026 (Grades 9-12) from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m.
Team Registration
Register by calling 412.237.3400 or emailing CustomerService@KaminScienceCenter.org.
The registration fee to participate in each SciYinz Squad Competition is $25 per team. Judo Bot teams will consist of up to four students/team, while the Chain Reaction Competition consists of up to five students/team.
There is a limit of 4 teams per school.
Check should be made payable to “Carnegie Institute.” Payment should be remitted no later than two weeks prior to the competition date and addressed to:
Kamin Science Center
ATTN: Finance
One Allegheny Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
About Judo-Bot Rumble
Grades 6-8 only
The Judo-Bot competitions are fun and engaging student competitions that promote teamwork, collaboration, and creativity all while addressing basic scientific principles that are regularly encountered across a wide array of STEM fields. All materials are provided by the Science Center during the program so there is no need for teachers or parents to compile supplies in advance.
Judo-Bot competitions come together throughout the school year to engage student competitions. No preparation is required; all materials are provided by the Science Center during the program.
About Chain Reaction Competition
Grades 9-12 only
Teams arrive at the competition with a Chain Reaction machine designed to accomplish a specific task. Teams of students compete with machines designed to complete the same task under identical parameters. Each machine must use 20 steps to complete the task within two minutes. Teams will have four minutes to reset their machine, then complete the task a second time. Machines should include a theme.
Scoring is based on reliability, task completion, most challenging transfers of energy, artistry, creativity, theme, and teamwork. If the machine malfunctions, team members are permitted to manually guide it to the next step; a penalty is assessed for each intervention. Scoring is determined by a series of judges. Upon registration, a teacher-student handbook will be provided.
Scholarships
Register your team(s) today by emailing CustomerService@KaminScienceCenter.Org or by calling 412.237.3400. A limited number of scholarships are available. Ask our Reservations Team if your school qualifies for a scholarship opportunity.
Questions
Please contact Christie Orlosky, STEM competitions coordinator, OrloskyC@KaminScienceCenter.org.
This program is a part of the Center for STEM Education and Career Development.
Scholarships
Register your team(s) today by email or by calling 412.237.3400. A limited number of scholarships are available. Ask our Reservations Team if your school qualifies for a scholarship opportunity.
