OpenSTEM, an innovative student research initiative, is redefining hands-on learning by providing self-contained research units that empower students to conduct independent projects in agriculture, automation, engineering, microbiology, programming, sustainability, life and environmental sciences, and more.
Traditional university labs prioritize faculty-led projects, leaving students with limited access to research opportunities. Founded by Sam Norton, OpenSTEM flips this model by providing host sites with research-grade units to remove traditional obstacles for students to propose, design, and execute experiments reflecting their own interests and passions.
“University labs have strict access. Those students who are permitted to work in them typically work on professor-led research instead of their own,” says Norton. “We wanted to create a low-risk, open-door platform where students can experiment, iterate, and innovate on their own ideas without needing special permissions or a huge budget.”
Each OpenSTEM unit includes three horticulture zones, one microbiology zone, several open-source programmable environmental sensors, embedded computing systems, automation tools, and a high-quality 3D printer, enabling a wide range of interdisciplinary projects in fields such as agricultural technology, AI-driven automation, sustainable technology, and materials science.
Expanding Industry Partnerships & Sponsorship Opportunities
With a successful pilot program at the College of Charleston, OpenSTEM is now seeking new host sites and industry partnerships to expand its impact. By integrating digital advertising and industry sponsorships into its research units, OpenSTEM provides companies in technology and sustainability with a direct engagement opportunity to connect with future engineers, data scientists, and environmental researchers. These sponsorships directly fund student research, covering stipends, research supplies, and operational costs, ensuring that students can participate for free while focusing entirely on innovation and discovery.
“Students have incredible ideas, but they need support to bring them to life,” says Norton. “By partnering with OpenSTEM, companies aren’t just advertising—they’re investing in the future of innovation and hands-on learning.”
Get Involved with OpenSTEM
OpenSTEM is actively seeking new university host sites and industry sponsors to expand its mission. Interested institutions and companies can learn more and explore partnership opportunities by visiting openstem.ai or contacting openstemsc@gmail.com.
About OpenSTEM
OpenSTEM is a student research initiative dedicated to expanding access to hands-on experimentation in automation, engineering, sustainability, computer science, and more. By providing research units equipped with advanced technology, OpenSTEM empowers students with low-barrier opportunities to explore, innovate, and develop real-world solutions across multiple disciplines.
For more information, visit openstem.ai.
