Reptile Youth Alliance
Research Conference!
Research Conference!
July 15th and 16th, 2023
Florida Gulf Coast University
The Reptile Youth Alliance Research Conference is a family friendly event that has live animal interactions, vendors, hands-on workshops, exciting speakers, and more!
Through the annual Reptile Youth Alliance Research Conference, hundreds of the nation’s students are challenged to go beyond their classroom studies to do independent project-based research. They work independently or in teams to address questions in the field of herpetology, a branch of zoology that deals with the study of reptiles and amphibians.
First place, Second place, and Honorable Mention merit prizes are awarded by RYA for projects in the Junior and Senior Divisions.
Selected Grand Prize recipients are awarded Scholarships and opportunity to study alongside respected scientists and herpetology research experts
Admission Tickets!
Admission Tickets!
Experience the ultimate education experience featuring the wonderment and excitement of REPTILES! Two BIG days of fun events, family-friendly attractions and world-renowned experts await. Kids 6 and under are FREE.
Family Pass
Family Pass
Admission for 2 ADULTS (18+) and up to 4 CHILDREN (6-17).
Apply Now to Participate as
a Presenter in the 2022 RYA Research Conference
Apply Now to Participate as
a Presenter in the 2022 RYA Research Conference
Reptiles and amphibians face unique conservation challenges when compared to other animals. Profound social and cultural barriers result in high rates of persecution, less public support for conservation, and less priority in regards to research, attention, and funding. Furthermore, herpetofauna continue to decline in number with researchers now estimating that over 40% of the world’s studied amphibians (IUCN, 2018) and ~20% of studied reptiles are threatened with extinction worldwide.
The purpose of the Reptile Youth Alliance is to bring attention to problems such as habitat destruction, pollution, and human-wildlife conflict that complicate the efforts to protect herpetofauna and their habitats. The Reptile Youth Alliance is a national group of passionate young reptile enthusiasts that are provided an opportunity to connect with peers, mentors, learn about herpetofauna, their habitats, and how we can work together to increase conservation support for reptiles and amphibians among the public.
Through the annual Reptile Youth Alliance Research Conference, hundreds of the nation’s students are challenged to go beyond their classroom studies to do independent project-based research. They work independently or in teams to address questions in the field of herpetology, a branch of zoology that deals with the study of reptiles and amphibians.
Why Enter the RYA Research Conference?
- Students have an opportunity to present their work to the public and other students
- All participants receive a commemorative pin and certificate.
- First place, Second place, and Honorable Mention merit prizes are awarded by RYA for projects in the Junior and Senior Divisions.
- Selected Grand Prize recipients are awarded and opportunity to study alongside respected scientists and herpetology research experts
Chance to interact with reptiles from around the world in unique hands-on educational workshops
Opportunity to learn from experts in fields such as herpetology, biology, and zoology
Make important connections with mentors
who have made significant achievements in their academic and career lives, who are mindful of their integrity, and have a story to share
2023 RYA Research Conference Presenter Application
2023 RYA Research Conference Presenter Application
Complete this form and press the Submit button at the bottom to apply to be a presenter at the 2023 Reptile Youth Alliance Research Conference. Once your information has been accepted, you will get an email with a required forms to be filled out and instructions on how to complete the application process.
Deadlines (all details):
The FINAL deadline for RYA pre-approval is May 30, 2023.
The FINAL deadline for other projects is June 25, 2023.
A student may participate in only one project.
Interested in Vending or Sponsoring?
Interested in Vending or Sponsoring?