GSSM hosts 37th Annual Research Colloquium featuring 114 student presentations
November 25, 2025
The South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) hosted its 37th Annual Research Colloquium on Nov. 21, showcasing research conducted by students over the summer. This year’s event featured 114 student presentations from 145 seniors, highlighting the depth and breadth of GSSM’s research and inquiry experience.
Students presented projects across a wide spectrum of high-impact fields, including healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, energy production, and applications of artificial intelligence.
GSSM senior Abhi Samala presents his research on isolating bioactive chemical compounds from marine sponges during the school’s 37th Annual Research Colloquium.
Each year, GSSM’s Research Colloquium brings together students, educators, mentors, and community partners to celebrate scientific discovery, communication, and collaboration. Throughout the summer, GSSM students work with mentors at universities, government agencies, and organizations across South Carolina, the United States, and abroad. These partnerships allow students to contribute to real-world research and engage in hands-on problem solving in disciplines that directly influence industry, innovation, and society.
“This is one of the most remarkable days at GSSM,” President Danny Dorsel said. “Our students dive into real research, return changed, and present complex work with clarity and confidence. It’s a tradition that sets our school apart.”
This year’s Randall M. LaCross Distinguished Research Leadership Award was presented to Dr. Sachin Rustgi of the Clemson University Pee Dee Research & Education Center in recognition of his exceptional mentorship and long-standing support of GSSM student researchers.
“Colloquium represents the best of GSSM: rigorous scientific inquiry supported by mentors, families, faculty, and a community committed to helping our students grow as researchers and leaders,” said Dr. Josh Witten, director of research and inquiry.
The Research & Inquiry program, founded in 1990, provides students with opportunities for growth through scientific exploration and discovery. The Annual Research Colloquium offers a professional, conference-style environment where students present their findings through oral presentations and poster sessions, reinforcing the importance of communicating the results of research for the benefit of others.
To learn more about student research at GSSM, visit www.scgssm.org.
About the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics
The South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics (GSSM) is a nationally ranked top 10 public high school that exists to bring world-class STEM education to students across the state. Founded in 1988 by Gov. Carroll Campbell, GSSM is a state resource that offers a variety of programs including an intensive two-year residential high school, online courses, summer camps, and in-school experiences for students in 3rd through 12th grades. At GSSM challenge is viewed as a gateway to opportunity. Learn more about how we help students realize their full potential by visiting www.scgssm.org.
