SNOLAB launches SEEDLING program to engage students in underground science

Cube Hall is experimental caverns for large experiments at SNOLAB. Scientists are showing working in the labratory in this undated photo. (Supplied/SNOLAB)

SNOLAB, Greater Sudbury’s deep underground research laboratory, is developing a new program to inspire students in northern Ontario and across the country to engage with science through hands-on learning.

The initiative, called SEEDLING (Science & Engineering Experiments at Depth: LearnING at SNOLAB), will begin development this spring. Aimed at students in grades 4 to 8, the program will encourage participants to ask their own scientific questions and use the scientific method to find answers. Students will design experiments tailored to the unique conditions at SNOLAB, with selected projects matched with SNOLAB mentors. These experiments will be built and tested via live broadcasts from the underground facility.

Located two kilometres below the surface in Vale’s Creighton Mine in Greater Sudbury, SNOLAB is the deepest and cleanest underground research facility in the world. Its location beneath the Canadian Shield shields experiments from cosmic rays, making it an ideal environment for cutting-edge scientific research.

“Our goal is to develop STEM programming in northern Ontario and to better reach equity-seeking groups as we inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers,” said Dr. Jodi Cooley, SNOLAB’s executive director.

“SEEDLING will provide greater access to STEM skills and opportunities in Northern Ontario and beyond.”

The program is designed to increase exposure to the scientific process for students regardless of their location, resources, or science background while advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in Canadian research facilities and preparing a new generation of scientists for a global economy.

SNOLAB officials said they expect SEEDLING to foster curiosity and innovation among young learners while strengthening STEM education in Northern Ontario and across Canada

SEEDLING has received $225,000 in funding over three years from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada’s PromoScience program. The funding was announced last week in Ottawa by François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.

Sudbury MP Viviane Lapointe praised the initiative, stating in a news release, “The SEEDLING program hosted at SNOLAB will have a positive impact on Canada’s applied and fundamental science communities and will play a significant role in uplifting science and engineering in Sudbury and across northern Ontario.”

SNOLAB said it has positioned Canada as a global leader in underground science, infrastructure, and expertise. By hosting advanced experiments, the facility enhances Canada’s scientific reputation, attracts talent, and generates economic benefits for the region and the country.