Scientific categories

With a diverse and dynamic range of categories, ESA 2026 offers participants from 9 to 25 years and diverse skill levels a platform to explore, express, and elevate their ideas.

At ESA 2026, five broad categories bring together the full spectrum of scientific exploration, ensuring every project finds its place:

Biological and Health Sciences

Explore the frontiers of life and health through a field that continues to transform our understanding of living systems. From the complexity of human anatomy to cutting-edge advances in biotechnology and genetic engineering, this category invites participants to uncover discoveries that shape the future of science and medicine.

Biomedical Sciences

Biomimicry

Biotechnology

Genetics

Human Biology and Physiology

Living Organisms

Microbiology and Immunology

Nature and Properties of Living Organisms

Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Development

Pure and Applied Sciences

Delve into the fundamental principles that govern the natural world and the applied knowledge that drives innovation. This category spans from theoretical exploration to practical application, offering a space to investigate the laws of physics, chemistry, mathematics, and Earth sciences in meaningful and impactful ways.

Acoustics

Astronomy

Chemical Physics

Chemistry and Chemical engineering

Computational Physics

Electromagnetism & Electronics

Fluid Dynamics/Fluid Mechanics

Geology and Geomorphology

Mathematical Physics

Mathematics and Statistics

Mechanics

Meteorology / Weather Physics

Optics / Light Physics

Statistical Mechanics & Thermodynamics

Environment and Ecosystems

Engage with the natural world and the systems that sustain life on Earth. This category encourages participants to explore biodiversity, environmental challenges, and sustainable solutions, empowering them to contribute to a more balanced and resilient future.

Ecosystems

Environmental Resources

Habitat Biodiversity

Natural resources and sustainable development (e.g.: agribusiness, energy, etc.)

Wildlife science

Engineering, Computer Science and Robotics Applications

Discover how innovation comes to life through engineering, computing, and robotics. From designing intelligent systems to developing advanced technologies, this category offers limitless opportunities to solve real-world problems and shape the future through creativity and technical expertise.

Aerospace engineering

Artificial intelligence

Building engineering

Civil engineering

Computer security

Construction engineering

Electrical engineering

Electronic and computer system development

Industrial engineering

Mechanical engineering

Programming

Robotics (design manufacture and use of robots)

Software development

Video games

WEB development

Social and Behavioural Sciences

Examine the forces that shape human behaviour, societies, and cultures. This category provides a platform to explore diverse perspectives—from history and linguistics to psychology and technology—offering insights that help us better understand individuals, communities, and global dynamics.

Archaeology

Culture, History

Demographics

Education and behavioural studies

Human behaviour (anthropology, psychology, psychoeducation, industrial relations, etc.)

Information and communications technologies (e.g. social media)

Linguistics

Sociology