In May, 2008, more than 1,500 of the world's most promising young scientists and innovators gathered in Atlanta, Georgia, to compete in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, a program of Society for Science & the Public. Representing 51 countries, regions and territories, each of these students earned top honors at local and regional competitions before being selected as finalists at the 2008 competition.

During the week in Atlanta, students converged on the Georgia World Congress Center, armed with presentation boards and three-dimensional models, to present original research projects to panels of esteemed judges and to the public at large, as they vied for nearly $4 million in scholarships and awards.

Many of this year's projects tackled issues relevant to people around the world, including research on global warming and alternative fuel sources, innovations in engineering resulting in increased robotic functionality and safer roads, and advancements in medicine that could improve the lives of disabled people everywhere.

Beyond the rigors of the research competition, students had the opportunity to chat with distinguished professionals in their fields and bond with other budding scientists and mathematicians from around the globe. Additionally, they participated in a flurry of event activities, including the annual Intel ISEF pin exchange and visits to local sites, including the Coca Cola Museum and the Atlanta Aquarium.

Here is a look at their week in pictures.