EPHS Student is National Finalist in 3M Science Competition

Eden Prairie student Carolyn Jons has created a food-storage bag that prevents mold by absorbing oxygen.

Next month she will compete for $25,000 as one of 10 national finalists in the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge.

“I’m really excited,” said the 14-year-old Eden Prairie High School freshman.

The Young Scientist Challenge is a competition designed to encourage budding inventors in grades 5-8.

Inspiration struck Jons while she was working on a project addressing the effect of oxygen removal treatments on mold found on blueberries for the Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair. Jons adapted the concept behind her science fair project to construct a product that was practical for consumers.

The exterior of the storage bag is made of oxygen impermeable plastic and a double-backed tape seal. The bag also contains an oxygen absorption packet, which prevents fungal growth in fruits and vegetables.

Jons submitted a 2-minute video application to the Young Scientist Challenge late this spring. Her application highlighted the functionality of her food bag and she was accepted as a challenge finalist this summer. Jons is currently working with a 3M scientist mentor to develop her invention and a presentation for the final event in October.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity,” said Karilyn Jons, Carolyn’s mother. “I’m proud of how hard she’s worked.”

Although Jons is unable to discuss the specifics of her final project, she did disclose that she has finished testing her invention and is currently working on the presentation component. Throughout the course of her invention development, Dr. Maria Appeaning, a research scientist with 3M’s Corporate Research Materials Laboratory, has served as Jons’ mentor.

“If I ever got stuck, it was nice to have someone to talk to,” Jons said. “I’ve really enjoyed the mentorship program.”

Jons will present her prototype to a panel of judges during the final competition on Oct. 15-16 at the 3M Innovation Center. Each of the 10 finalists will receive $1,000, among other supplementary prizes. First prize is $25,000, the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist,” a trip from Discovery Student Adventures and a contest trophy.

However, Jons isn’t counting her chickens before they hatch.

“It’s always hard to tell how you’re going to do ahead of time,” she said. “Either way, it’s been a phenomenal opportunity.”

For more information about the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge, or to view Jons’ application video, visit the competition website.

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