Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I'm initially conducting a research project (for competition) on thin films independently and hope to complete later in a lab somewhere.

I want to analyze the growth rates by chemical vapor deposition, specifically the kinetics of mass transport or surface reactions. I could also compare various deposition methods such as PECVD and LPCVD with different precursors. I'm trying to get started with the analysis of molecular dynamics using a simulation software.
From the topics above, could I possibly form a research question from simulation work? Would combination of simulation and lab work be required?

Whether you would need lab work or a simulation would be sufficient would depend on the specific rules of the science fair you are going to submit it to.

This isn't an area that I'm personally very familiar with, but I think it sounds like a fascinating topic, and would encourage you to pursue it.