2023 ISEF Winners

Regeneron ISEF 2023 Texas Special Award Winners

Air Force Research Laboratory on behalf of the United States Air Force

The Air Force Research Laboratory is a global technical enterprise, boasting some of the best and brightest leaders in the world. We are Revolutionary, Relevant, and Responsive to the Warfighter. We defend America by unleashing the unconquerable power of scientific and technical innovation. Our mission is leading the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space, and cyberspace force.

First Award of $750 in each Regeneron ISEF Category

• BEHA041 — DSM Diagnosis Is Dead: Novel, AI-Powered Biopsychosocial Fingerprinting for Depressive, Anxiety, Trauma, and Stress Disorders | Siddhu Pachipala, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America

• BMED009 — In silico Accelerated Drug Discovery and Development Utilizing Human Physiological Modeling and Simulation | Aaron George, Saint Dominic Savio Catholic High School, Austin, TX, United States of America

• CHEM002T — Engineering a Cost-Effective and Biodegradable Cellulosic Battery Composition | Madelyn Puza, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America; Shivani Mundra, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America

• EBED007 — Optimizing Aero-Stability in Model Rockets Using Advanced Flight Algorithm and Servo-Actuated Thrust Vector Control | Rodrigo Valdes, Harmony Science Academy – El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States of America

• MATH004 — The Easiest Hard Problem: A Heuristic Solution to the Two-Way Partitioning Problem Using Probabilistic Algorithms | Meryl Zhang, R. C. Clark High School, Plano, TX, United States of America

• MATS003 — Programmable Matter II: Optimizing Logical Topology and Automating Manufacture of a Microscale, Self-Reconfigurable Swarm Robotic System | Sohi Sanjay Patel, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America

• PHYS002 — Investigating the Effect of Qubit Entanglement on Quantum Decoherence | Jesse Daniel Miller, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America

• TMED014T — Investigating the Effect of Traumatic Brain Injury and THIP on Short-Term Memory in Drosophila melanogaster Using Aversive Phototaxic Suppression | Abby Miriam Montemayor, Keystone School, San Antonio, TX, United States of America; Niraj Om Srivastava, Keystone School, San Antonio, TX, United States of America

Winners will also receive an engraved glass trophy and medal.

American Mathematical Society

The American Mathematical Society was founded in 1888, to further the interests of mathematical research & scholarship, as well as to serve the national/international community through its publications, meetings, advocacy & other programs. Friends and family of the late mathematician, Karl Menger, contribute to a fund in his memory, to be distributed by the AMS for annual awards at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair.

Third Award of $500

• MATH004 — The Easiest Hard Problem: A Heuristic Solution to the Two-Way Partitioning Problem Using Probabilistic Algorithms | Meryl Zhang, R. C. Clark High School, Plano, TX, United States of America

Association for Computing Machinery

ACM is widely recognized as the premier membership organization for computing professionals, delivering resources that advance computing as a science and a profession; enable professional development; and promote policies and research that benefit society. ACM hosts the computing industry’s leading Digital Library and serves its global members and the computing profession with journals and magazines, conferences, workshops, electronic forums, and Learning Center.

Fourth Award of $500

• MATH004 — The Easiest Hard Problem: A Heuristic Solution to the Two-Way Partitioning Problem Using Probabilistic Algorithms | Meryl Zhang, R. C. Clark High School, Plano, TX, United States of America

Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence

AAAI is a scientific society devoted to advancing the scientific understanding of the mechanisms underlying thought and intelligent behavior and their embodiment in machines. AAAI promotes research in, and responsible use of, artificial intelligence, as well as public understanding of artificial intelligence. AAAI also strives to improve the teaching and training of AI practitioners, and provide guidance on the importance and potential of current AI developments and future directions.

 Second Award of $1,000

• EBED002 — IVY: Intelligent Vision System for the Visually Impaired | Sarang Goel, Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science, Irving, TX, United States of America

AAAI Student Memberships for each finalist that is part of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Prize Winning projects and 5 Honorable Mention winning projects (up to 3 students per project) (in-kind award / part of the 1st-3rd prize)

Central Intelligence Agency

The CIA is a U.S. government agency that provides objective intelligence on foreign countries and global issues to the president, the National Security Council, and other policymakers to help them make national security decisions. Our Agency is made up of multidisciplinary teams that integrate the full range of our analytic, operational, support, technical and digital capabilities. The CIA is dedicated to investing in and building the next generation of a diverse and technically skilled workforce to meet the needs of the nation.

Second Award: $300

• SOFT003 — A Robust and Interpretable Deep Neural Network Algorithm for Leukemia Identification in Peripheral Blood Smear Cells | Leonardo Amato Regis de Farias, Lubbock High School, Lubbock, TX, United States of America

First Award: $1000 award

• BEHA041 — DSM Diagnosis Is Dead: Novel, AI-Powered Biopsychosocial Fingerprinting for Depressive, Anxiety, Trauma, and Stress Disorders | Siddhu Pachipala, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America

• ROBO012T — An Autonomous Over-the-Board Chess Solution for Players in Isolated Conditions | Ayaan Javaid Dhuka, Saint John’s School, Sugar Land, TX, United States of America; Caiman Antonio Moreno-Earle, Saint John’s School, Houston, TX, United States of America; Landon Patrick Doughty, Saint John’s School, Houston, TX, United States of America

• ROBO049 — VisiAide: A Multifaceted Self-Learning AI Assistant for the Visually Impaired Using a Novel Context-Based Approac | Dhroov Veeral Bharatia, Vines High School, Plano, TX, United States of America

China Association for Science and Technology (CAST)

China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) is the largest organization of scientists and technologists in China. One of its missions is to promote public understanding of science. Having developed science education programs, CAST supports youth and adolescents in becoming citizens with high scientific literacy. CAST awards are given to the projects that best reflect the originality and innovation of the students’ work in all scientific disciplines.

Award of $1,200

• CHEM002T — Engineering a Cost-Effective and Biodegradable Cellulosic Battery Composition | Madelyn Puza, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America; Shivani Mundra, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America

Lawrence Technological University

Lawrence Technological University is a creative university of the future and one of only 13 private doctoral universities in the United States. Students benefit from small class sizes and a hands-on, STEAM-based education. The focus on theory and practice in LTU’s classrooms and labs lay a foundation for learning coupled with internships and co-ops. Lawrence Tech produces technologically-savvy graduates no matter what discipline they choose to study. Because at Lawrence Tech, everything is possible … and possible is everything.

STEM Scholar Award, a tuition scholarship of $19,650 per year, renewable for up to four years and applicable to any major

• ETSD006 — Converting a Gas Engine To Use Compressed Air | Victor Robert Moran, John Jay Science and Engineering Academy, San Antonio, TX, United States of America

Long Island University

Long Island University, with two campuses in Brooklyn and Brookville, NY, is in the top 7% of universities with high research activity nationally recognized by the Carnegie Classification. Dassault Systemes designated LIU as the world’s first Center of Excellence in Life Sciences & Research with high societal impact in the fields of precision medicine, pharmaceutical sciences and healthcare in the digital age. LIU offers majors like Pharmacy, Health Sciences, Veterinary Technology, Biomedical Science, Health Care Administration, Nursing, and more. For more information, visit liu.edu.

Presidential Scholarships

• TMED001 — The Earthworm Squirm: Multiple Sclerosis Hypnosis Investigating the Potentiality of an Alternative, Realistic Cure of Encephalomyelitis disseminata (Multiple Sclerosis) Using the Neoblasts from Dugesia tigrina (Planaria) on Lumbricus terrestris (Earthworms) | Alanna Gabrielle Polyak, Plano West Senior High School, Plano, TX, United States of America

National Geographic Society

The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organization that uses the power of science, exploration, education, and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Since 1888, National Geographic has pushed the boundaries of exploration, investing in bold people and transformative ideas. The National Geographic Society is presenting special awards to Regeneron ISEF participants whose projects display excellence in Geography and Geospatial Science.

Excellence in Geography and Geospatial Science Award

• MATH005T — Using Mathematical Modeling to Create Non-Gerrymandered Congressional Voting Maps | Ethan Aditya Rebello, Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science, Coppell, TX, United States of America; Jayanth Narasimha Pandit, Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science, Frisco, TX, United States of America; Zachary Christopher Li, Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science, Coppell, TX, United States of America

National Security Agency Research Directorate

The NSA Research Directorate is one of the most established research organizations in the U.S. Intelligence Community. As a world leader in science and technology, Research engages with leading industries, universities, and national laboratories to both advance core competencies and to leverage work in overlapping disciplines. The ISEF Special Awards recognize exceptional research that demonstrates world-class skills in mathematics, computer science, cybersecurity, engineering, physics, and neuroscience while promoting research that can assure and protect cyberspace.

First Place Award “Mathematics”

• MATH011 — Ending States of a Special Variant of the Chip-Firing Algorithm | Rich Wang, William P. Clements High School, Sugar Land, TX, United States of America

First Place Award “Principles of Security and Privacy”

• BEHA041 — DSM Diagnosis Is Dead: Novel, AI-Powered Biopsychosocial Fingerprinting for Depressive, Anxiety, Trauma, and Stress Disorders | Siddhu Pachipala, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America

Office of Naval Research on behalf of the United States Navy and Marine Corps

The Naval Science Awards Program (NSAP) is a U.S. Navy and Marine Corps program that encourages our nation’s students to develop and retain an interest in science and engineering. NSAP recognizes the accomplishments of eligible students at regional and state science and engineering fairs, as well as the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in producing and presenting quality science and engineering projects.

The Chief of Naval Research Scholarship Award of $15,000

• EBED007 — Optimizing Aero-Stability in Model Rockets Using Advanced Flight Algorithm and Servo-Actuated Thrust Vector Control | Rodrigo Valdes, Harmony Science Academy – El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States of America

Patent and Trademark Office Society

The PTOS is a membership-based organization for Patent and Trademark professionals and other interested individuals. From its inception in 1917, the Society has been dedicated to the improvement and appreciation of the United States Patent and Trademark Systems through promoting the systems’ growth and well-being, as well as promoting the social and intellectual welfare of the Society members.

A flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol will be given to the top winner of this Special Award.

Second Award of $500

• BMED009 — In silico Accelerated Drug Discovery and Development Utilizing Human Physiological Modeling and Simulation | Aaron George, Saint Dominic Savio Catholic High School, Austin, TX, United States of America

Serving Society Through Science

Serving Society Through Science (SSTS) is dedicated to recognizing talented individuals who seek to serve humanity. SSTS awards creative, outstanding projects that have the potential to improve the lives of people or represent a dramatic scientific advancement.

Second Award of $500

• EAEV002 — An Analysis Into the Removal of Microplastics From Water Using Oil-Based Ferrofluids | Rishab Ghosh, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America

U.S. Agency for International Development

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the government agency that helps people create better futures for themselves – no matter what country they live in. USAID leads international development and humanitarian efforts to save lives, reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance, and help people progress beyond assistance. USAID is leveraging the promise of innovation, technology and research to bring about positive change and solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

USAID Science for Development First Award – Agriculture and Food Security

• PLNT044 — Agro-Rhizoremediation: Rhizoremediation With Agro-Transformed Oryza sativa to Facilitate Arsenic Degradation in situ (Year III) | Prisha Bhat, Plano East Senior High School, Richardson, TX, United States of America

University of North Texas at Dallas

The University of North Texas at Dallas (UNT Dallas) serves as a pathway to socioeconomic mobility for the most diverse student population in the region. Our career-focused educational options are accompanied by innovative, high-quality academic programs and opportunities for rich experiential learning. UNT Dallas is committed to science, technology, engineering, and math disciplines; we are building a new $100 million dollar STEM building opening in 2025. At Regeneron ISEF, we are proud to recognize individual student projects with awards for outstanding achievement and innovation in STEM.

$2,500 scholarship, renewable up to four years

• MCRO013 — Designing a Personalized Probiotic to Prevent/Alleviate Type Two Diabetes and Inflammatory Bowel Disease | Jagarlamudi, Alcuin School, Farmers Branch, TX, United States of America

• MCRO046 — Combating Pseudomonas Resistance: Cloning of the ampC Gene Encoding for Beta-Lactamase and Development of a Non-Toxic Allosteric Inhibitory Cocktail Therapy to Eradicate Pseudomonas aeruginosa | Shriya Prakash Bhat, Plano East Senior High School, Richardson, TX, United States of America

Winning students receive a $2,500 scholarship, renewable for up to four years (eight semesters) or the completion of the first baccalaureate degree. Students must be a resident of Texas and a high school graduate with a minimum 3.0 cumulative high school GPA (unweighted). They must have been chosen as a winner by UNT Dallas-identified judges and intend to enroll in a STEM program at UNT Dallas in Fall 2023 or Fall 2024 semesters. Criteria to renew: Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA in all UNT Dallas coursework and full-time enrollment in a STEM program each fall and spring semester.

University of Texas at Arlington College of Science

The University of Texas at Arlington College of Science is a vibrant, highly diverse, and inclusive community of scholars. As part of a Carnegie R-1 and Texas Tier I research institution, the College conducts research that has a global impact and provides a world-class education for almost 4,000 students in seven disciplines. Maverick Scientists strive to innovate, discover, and learn, and find solutions to many of the world’s major problems.

Scholarship of $10,000

• ANIM009 — Mitigating the Harmful Effects of Radiation Therapy With the Synergistic Effects of Curcumin Bioavailability and Piperine on Dugesia dorotocephala | Aliza Tharani, Colleyville Heritage High School, Euless, TX, United States of America

Winning students will receive a certificate of scholarship recognition from the College of Science at the special awards ceremony. Students awarded scholarships must meet unconditional admissions requirements at UT Arlington and enroll as a UT Arlington College of Science major the fall semester immediately after their high school graduation for the scholarship to go into effect. Students may contact Valerie Martinez, Assistant Director of Enrollment Management and Recruitment for the College of Science at [email protected] with additional questions they may have.

University of Texas at Dallas

Established by the founders of Texas Instruments, The University of Texas at Dallas is one of the nation’s fastest growing research public universities and designated as a Carnegie “R1” university. With more than 31,000 students from over 100 different countries, UT Dallas offers top-ranked programs in the arts and sciences, engineering and management with a commitment to graduating well-rounded members of the global community whose education has prepared them for rewarding lives and productive careers in a constantly changing world.

• CBIO001T — A Novel Application of Machine Learning Algorithms on Toxin Proteins to Predict Molecular Function | Ameya Kulkarni, Coppell High School, Coppell, TX, United States of America; Praneeth Muvva, Coppell High School, Coppell, TX, United States of America

• CELL003 — Attenuation of Methylglyoxal Cytotoxicity With Fisetin Rescue in Saccharomyces cerevisiae | Zehra Jaffery, Plano West Senior High School, Plano, TX, United States of America

• CHEM002T — Engineering a Cost-Effective and Biodegradable Cellulosic Battery Composition | Madelyn Puza, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America; Shivani Mundra, College Park High School, The Woodlands, TX, United States of America

• EBED007 — Optimizing Aero-Stability in Model Rockets Using Advanced Flight Algorithm and Servo-Actuated Thrust Vector Control | Rodrigo Valdes, Harmony Science Academy – El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States of America

• EBED009 — A Novel Approach to Series Elastic Actuation in Neurorehabilitative Soft Robotics Using Resistance Pressure Sensors to Rotate Servo-Controlled Appendages Accurately | Amisha Sao, Round Rock High School, Cedar Park, TX, United States of America

• EGSD051 — Engineered Phototropism: Improving the Energy Efficiency of Residential-Use Solar Tracking Using Soft-Bodied Thermal Expansion | Ricardo Victorio, College Park High School, Spring, TX, United States of America

• ETSD006 — Converting a Gas Engine To Use Compressed Air | Victor Robert Moran, John Jay Science and Engineering Academy, San Antonio, TX, United States of America

• MCRO005 — Identifying Novel Modes of Inhibition of C. pusillum and B. subtilis Bacteria, Against Deadly Bat Fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Year 8) | Calvin Kirtley Harold Carpenter, All Saints Episcopal High School, Lubbock, TX, United States of America

• PHYS046T — A Deep Learning Based Hierarchical Labeling and Generative Sampling Framework for Classifying Particle Jets for Generalizable Tagging | Mihir Lal Relan, Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions, Houston, TX, United States of America; Yash Semlani, Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions, Houston, TX, United States of America

• ROBO004 — FISQ: A Few-Shot, Interpretable, and Self-Supervised Quantum Machine Learning Approach to Automated Real-Time Prediction Across Multiple Domain | Shobhit Agarwal, Rick Reedy High School, Frisco, TX, United States of America

• TMED014T — Investigating the Effect of Traumatic Brain Injury and THIP on Short-Term Memory in Drosophila melanogaster Using Aversive Phototaxic Suppression | Abby Miriam Montemayor, Keystone School, San Antonio, TX, United States of America; Niraj Om Srivastava, Keystone School, San Antonio, TX, United States of America

The UT Dallas Regeneron ISEF award is renewable for up to 8 semesters and can be stacked with other institutional awards not exceeding tuition and mandatory fees. Recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA, be enrolled at UT Dallas full-time and maintain satisfactory academic progress on a four-year graduation timeline.