ABQ Times

High school students from across New Mexico will gather at The University of New Mexico Health Sciences campus on March 1 for the 10th annual Brain Bee competition. This event, akin to a spelling bee, tests participants' knowledge of brain facts.

Since its inception in 1998, the Brain Bee has grown into a national and international competition. Students first compete within their state, with winners advancing to national and subsequently international levels.

The event includes educational demonstrations and lab tours, providing insights into neuroscience data collection. Participants also engage in a lab practical, simulating real-life scientific exploration through written exams involving medical histories or pathology specimens.

Nikki Maphis, PhD, expressed her enthusiasm: “I wish this existed when I was in high school. If I had had this opportunity in high school, I might have found research sooner.”

Each year features a special speaker on neuroscience topics during a complimentary lunch for students and chaperones. The event is sponsored by the UNM Health Sciences Center, the Center for Brain Recovery and Repair, and the Brain and Behavioral Health Institute.

For over a decade, dedicated neuroscience trainees and faculty in New Mexico have organized the Brain Bee to reach teens across the state. New Mexico often ranks below average in science education due to limited accessibility.

The local chapter began in 2014 thanks to Donald Partridge, PhD, and Jonathan Brigman, PhD. Brigman remarked on its impact: “Our first winner went on to graduate in a neuroscience major.” He emphasized that beyond competition, it’s about students witnessing biomedical research firsthand.

Russell Morton, PhD recalled his involvement as emcee during the inaugural event in 2015: “I think we did everything that first year – practical, written and oral exam.” He highlighted an innovative "zombie talk" from 2022 using fictional zombies to explain neurobiology basics.

Organizers aim to bridge representation gaps among aspiring scientists in New Mexico by fostering interactions between trainees and high schoolers. UNM hosts a diverse student body including many first-generation college attendees from low-income backgrounds.

Morton envisions expanding participation: “There is no reason why we can’t have 50-plus kids participate.” Efforts continue annually to engage more schools statewide. The event begins at 10 a.m., with further details available at www.nmbrainbee.com.