May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time when conversations about mental health take place across the country. First observed in 1949, the month was created to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, according to the .

Read below about how several 2026 Regeneron ISEF finalists are using biochemistry, AI and medical research to help advance the conversations around improving mental health.

(Oviedo, Florida)

In her biochemistry project, , 17, of Oviedo, Florida, explored new approaches to detecting mental health challenges in patients. Depression, one of the most common conditions, is diagnosed primarily through clinical evaluation rather than objective lab testing. Her project focused on optimizing a novel electrochemical sensor and biosensor for detecting two mental health biomarkers: serotonin, (5-HT), which is associated with depression, and microRNAs, whose levels vary significantly in patients with suicidal ideation (for example, miRNA-1202). The sensor exhibited high selectivity when tested against a mismatched miRNA sequence, underscoring its specificity. Biological fluids including cerebrospinal fluid and blood serum were also evaluated to mimic real-world clinical conditions. Overall, the sensors showed strong reproducibility, selectivity and sensitivity. Angela also investigated simultaneous detection using different redox markers for the 4WJ biosensor. Future research could expand biomarkers in pathways affected by structural variants known to alter gene regulation in mental disorders.

(Manassas, Virginia)听

of Manassas, Virginia, examined the connection between smartphone use and mental health, focusing on phubbing, the act of using a phone during face-to-face interactions. The behavior affects an estimated 75% of smartphone users and has been associated with depression, loneliness and relationship dissatisfaction. To better understand its impact, Atiksh conducted a randomized control trial involving 132 adults, 62% 听of whom were female, observing existing social groups in public spaces over sessions averaging 75 minutes.

This research demonstrates a novel contingency management approach to reducing phubbing, with potential applications in cafeterias, events and other social settings. Findings also suggest that interdependent group dynamics, not incentives alone, may play an important role in driving behavioral change.

and (Kingshill, U.S. Virgin Islands)听

, both 17, of Kingshill, U.S. Virgin Islands, thought about mental health in space. Their project proposes an adaptive modular lunar habitat designed to support astronaut psychological well-being through integrated environmental design and AI-assisted monitoring. Mental health is a critical factor in mission success, particularly during long-duration space exploration, where astronauts face isolation, confinement, stress and delayed communication with Earth. The habitat features a scalable geometric structure that allows seamless expansion while reducing environmental monotony and promoting mental stimulation. Functional modules include living, research, communal and operational spaces. Supporting technologies, including motion sensors, circadian lighting that mimics Earth鈥檚 day-night cycle, and a wearable heart rate variability (HRV) wristband, monitor sleep, behavior and stress through a centralized dashboard. Together, these systems enable earlier detection of behavioral and emotional changes, offer a more proactive approach to mental health support than current methods.

and (Peachtree City, Georgia)听

In their translational medical science project, , both 16, of Peachtree City, Georgia, created a medicated chewing gum to using passionflower as a potential treatment for generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD. Passionflower has long been studied for its calming properties, in part because it contains naturally occurring compounds called flavonoids, helping to regulate brain chemicals linked to anxiety. Their research explored whether these compounds could be successfully extracted from passionflower and incorporated into a medicated chewing gum while preserving their therapeutic effects. The results were statistically significant, suggesting the compounds remained effective in this form and pointing to a potentially accessible new approach to anxiety relief.

You can find more 2026 Regeneron ISEF finalists鈥� projects focused on mental illness and health here. Also, if you or someone you know is struggling and needs support, you can call NAMI at 1-800-950-6264 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST or text 741-741 to connect with a crisis counselor, available 24/7. You can also call the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 for help.

The post Hope for the future: 2026 Regeneron ISEF finalists research solutions for the mental health crisis appeared first on 快播视频.

TARRYTOWN, N.Y. and WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 15, 2026) 鈥� Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: REGN) and 快播视频 (the 快播视频) announced that , 17, of Sapporo, Japan won the $100,000 George D. Yancopoulos Innovator Award at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair 2026 (Regeneron ISEF), the world鈥檚 largest precollege science and engineering competition.

For more information about the top winners and access to visual assets visit our media kit here.

Key Takeaways:

• This year鈥檚 finalists received more than听$7 million in awards based on their projects鈥� creativity, innovation, and depth of scientific inquiry.
• The top winners were honored at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona during two award ceremonies: the Special Awards Ceremony on May 14, and the Grand Awards Ceremony on May 15.
• Top prizes ranged from $10,000 to $100,000 and were awarded to support students鈥� education and continued research, investing in the next generation of scientific leaders.
• The competition featured more than 1,700 young 快播视频 students, representing more than 67 countries, regions, and territories.
• , 17, of Sapporo, Japan won first place and received the $100,000 George D. Yancopoulos Innovator Award for his creation of a simulation program to understand complex folding, like in origami. The award is named in honor of George D. Yancopoulos, the pioneering drug researcher and Regeneron co-Founder, Board co-Chair, President and Chief Scientific Officer.
• , 18, of Bellevue, Washington, and , 17, of Sofia, Bulgaria each received the Regeneron Young Scientist Awards of $75,000, Agrawal for a sponge that removes salmon-killing pollutants from water, and Veselinov for describing a new theorem in mathematics that describes the conditions under which certain equations cannot be solved using basic math functions.
• Other top prizes went to projects in Environmental Engineering, Technology Enhances the Arts, and Materials Science.

“Congratulations to the winners of this year鈥檚 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair,” said Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of 快播视频 and Executive Publisher of Science News. 鈥淭hese students never fail to inspire me. They come from different backgrounds, different disciplines, and different corners of the world, and they are taking on some of our most urgent challenges with rigor, imagination, and determination. At a moment when bold thinking is needed most, they are proof of what鈥檚 possible. I couldn鈥檛 be more optimistic about the future.”

Regeneron ISEF brings together the world鈥檚 most promising young scientists and engineers to showcase research with real-world impact. Through this competition, Regeneron and the 快播视频 are fostering the next generation of 快播视频 leaders who are helping to solve real-world challenges to improve our world.

鈥淐ongratulations to the extraordinary young scientists of Regeneron ISEF 2026. My own scientific journey began in high school, supported by great teachers, driven by a fearless youthful belief that I could cure my grandmother’s disease, and inspired by the excitement and challenge of science competitions,鈥� said George D. Yancopoulos, M.D., Ph.D., co-Founder, co-Chairman, President and Chief Scientific Officer of Regeneron. 鈥淚 continue to believe that the best hope for overcoming the greatest threats facing humanity lies in inspiring brilliant young minds to take on these challenges. That’s why Regeneron proudly invests hundreds of millions of dollars in programs like ISEF and the Science Talent Search. We鈥檙e celebrating not only what these students have already achieved, but the extraordinary impact we know they鈥檒l have next.”

, 17, of Sapporo, Japan, won first place and received the George D. Yancopoulos Innovator Award of $100,000 for his work to predict how materials can fold in complex ways. He created a simulation program to understand complex folding, like in origami. Current methods for predicting folding can either only trace one path at a time or fail to test all the possibilities. Hikaru’s simulation software uses a statistical method called Markov Chain Monte Carlo. This method samples many possible scenarios and uses those patterns to estimate the most probable answers. It allows the simulation to examine all possibilities at once in a single run. Hikaru’s software predicted known solutions, such as the folding of a ladybug wing. This program could help design devices that need to be packed into small spaces and unfolded later, such as solar sails for satellites, medical devices or emergency pop-up shelters.

, 18, of Bellevue, Washington, received the Regeneron Young Scientist Award of $75,000 for a sponge that removes salmon-killing pollutants from water. When adult coho salmon spawn, they return to the urban streams of Washington鈥檚 Puget Sound region. In some streams, up to 80% of these fish die before spawning. These streams are polluted with a chemical from tires called 6PPD-quinone. Previous work found that 6PPD-quinone was a primary cause of these salmon deaths. To remove the pollutant from water, Lakshmi created sponge-like filters from jute plant waste. In laboratory tests of water with tire particles, she showed the filters removed up to 80% of the pollutant. It can also remove other heavy metals and particles. It also naturally breaks down in the environment. Compared with current alternatives, Lakshmi鈥檚 solution required 85% less energy to produce and reduced costs by about 98%. Her work may lead to a scalable way to protect aquatic ecosystems and drinking water from tire-related contaminants.

, 17, of Sofia, Bulgaria, received the Regeneron Young Scientist Award of $75,000 for describing a new theorem in mathematics. Mathematicians have found that equations that follow f(x) = a can be solved with basic math functions, except in a few specific cases. Nikola analyzed those isolated cases of unsolvability to find a common thread. He combined several advanced mathematical concepts. He combined ideas from topology, symmetry and Galois theory. He used these approaches to analyze when equations become impossible to solve exactly. By doing this, he described the conditions under which the equation f(x) = a cannot be solved using basic math functions. His work may impact equations used in physics and in describing how objects move through space.

Other Regeneron ISEF top honors include:

, 15, of Ontario, Canada, received the Gordon E. Moore Award for Positive Outcomes for Future Generations of $50,000 for making an AI-powered imaging robot to find and measure tiny pieces of plastic in water. Microplastics threaten animals and aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Current ways to measure microplastics are costly and hard to implement. To create a faster and more practical solution, Evan designed and built an underwater 3D holographic camera. The camera is mounted on a self-propelled robot that swims through the water like a sea turtle. He also trained AI models to find pieces of plastic smaller than a red blood cell in the underwater images. His models were 94% accurate at telling microplastics apart from other particles. He tested it in 10 bodies of water, scanning more than 80,000 3D images for plastic particles and microorganisms. His work could make it easier and faster to monitor water sources for microplastics.

, 15, of Bellevue, Washington, received the F. Thomson Leighton and Bonnie Berger Family Prize for 快播视频 Excellence of $50,000 for her music therapy device. Although music therapy is a recognized approach for supporting mental health, access is limited. Cost, provider shortages and lack of insurance coverage make music therapy inaccessible. To combat this, Anusha created a portable music therapy device. Her platform delivers tailored, adaptive music based on input from finger sensors. The platform combines 11 AI programs to detect emotions and generate music in real time. Across several experiments, people using the device showed reductions in stress and anxiety. Users also stayed more engaged with the therapy sessions. The platform could make it easier for people to access music therapy, which can help reduce stress, anxiety and depression.

, 17, of Andover, Massachusetts, received the Craig R. Barrett Award for Innovation of $10,000 for developing a new way to sort plastic recyclables using a dissolvable tag. One of the major challenges with plastic recycling is inaccurate sorting of the different plastic types. Colored plastic can also be hard to sort for proper recycling. To improve sorting accuracy, Kevin printed a radio frequency tag on plastic materials. These materials are similar to those used in plastic manufacturing. The tag acts like a wireless barcode, identifying the plastic type for sorting purposes. He made the tag from a conductive material called MXene that can transmit radio frequency signals. The tag is covered by a thin protective coating that dissolves in alkaline water. Experiments showed that both materials quickly break down during the hot washing step already used in recycling plants. Because they wash away, the plastic can be recycled without contamination. Kevin鈥檚 experiments showed the printed tag remained readable for at least six weeks. This practical approach offers a potential way to improve plastic recycling.

, 17, of Rye, New York, received the H. Robert Horvitz Prize for Fundamental Research of $10,000 for studying brain cells using magnets. Nervous system diseases can disrupt calcium signaling in brain cells called astrocytes. Researchers increasingly believe astrocytes play an important role in brain disease, but there are few ways to precisely control them remotely. Inspired by the physics of magnetic levitation, Illaria trialed a way to use magnets to modify signals sent from astrocyte cells. To do this, she first created a material that responds to magnetic fields. In the lab, she added the material to astrocyte cells. When she exposed the cells to magnets, their calcium signaling, which the cells use to communicate, changed. Different magnetic conditions made different patterns. Illaria also studied the biology of the system. She confirmed that a channel in the astrocytes called TRPV4 was responsible for the changes in calcium signaling. Under conditions that mimic a brain injury, she was able to use the system to reduce signs of cellular stress. Her research could help lead to new therapies that regulate brain activity without implanted electrical devices.

, 17, of Orlando, Florida, received the Peggy Scripps Award for Science Communication of $10,000 for creating a carbon dioxide (CO2)-based system that kills honey bee pests. Honey bees are important pollinators that support many global food crops, but up to half of all colonies die off each year. A common pest is the varroa mite. Current treatments for these mites leave chemical residues in honey and beeswax and can harm bees. Aakash鈥檚 earlier work showed that CO2 is an effective way to control the mites while minimizing harm to the bees. For this year鈥檚 project, he tested the long-term safety and real-world performance of his 鈥淢ite Blower鈥� CO2 treatment prototype. His system was as good or better at getting rid of the mites as existing pesticides. It also avoided many of their harmful side effects. In a 10-week field trial of 60 hives, the CO2-treated bees were healthier and made more honey than hives treated with pesticides. Aakash鈥檚 Mite Blower may be a cheaper and safer alternative to treating varroa mite infestations, potentially reducing the loss of hives.

, 18, of Saint Paul, Minnesota, received the听Mary Sue Coleman Award for Life Science Innovation & Impact听of $10,000 for his low-cost system to detect and interrupt seizure-like behavior in a worm model. Some people with epilepsy get brain stimulation to help control seizures. Finding the right stimulation settings often takes months of trial and error. This can be expensive and frustrating for patients. To study brain stimulation methods, Evan used gene editing to add an ultrasound-sensitive channel into the brain cells of a worm. He then built a computer controller to detect seizure-like activity. When it detected a seizure, the program would trigger an ultrasound to activate the channel and stop the behavior. Using the system, Evan tested different stimulation settings to find which reduced seizures the most. He reduced seizure recurrence by 70.1% and lowered overall seizure activity by nearly 30%. His work may lead to faster, lower-cost ways to study brain stimulation in living systems.

, 19, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and , 18, of Dubnica nad Vahom, Slovakia, received the Dudley R. Herschbach SIYSS Award.

, 17, of Oviedo, Florida, along with , 17, and , 17, of Mclean, Virginia, received the EU Contest for Young Scientists Award. Their projects will represent Regeneron ISEF at the EU Contest for Young Scientists to be held this September in Kiel, Germany.

In addition to the Top Award winners, more than 540 projects received awards and prizes for their innovative research, including 鈥淔irst Award鈥� winners, who each received a $6,000 prize.

Category Winners (22):

• Animal Sciences, sponsored by Jane Street
  • , 17, of Orlando, Florida

• Behavioral and Social Sciences, sponsored by Jane Street
  • , 18, of Andover, Massachusetts

• Biochemistry, sponsored by Regeneron
  • , 17, of New York City, New York

• Biomedical and Health Sciences, sponsored by Regeneron
  • , 17, of Westchester, New York

• Biomedical Engineering, sponsored by Regeneron
  • , 17, of Cary, North Carolina
  • , 17, of Mueang Chiang Mai, Thailand
  • , 16, of Mueang Chiang Mai, Thailand
  • , 16, of Mueang Chiang Mai, Thailand

• Cellular and Molecular Biology, sponsored by Regeneron
  • , 18, of Saint Paul, Minnesota

• Chemistry, sponsored by Scripps Research
  • , 19, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania
  • , 18, of Bellevue, Washington

• Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, sponsored by Regeneron
  • , 17, of Melbourne, Florida
  • , 17, Jubail Industrial City, Saudi Arabia

• Earth and Environmental Sciences, sponsored by Natural Resources Defense Council
  • , 17, of Lincolndale, New York
  • , 15, of Andover, Massachusetts

• Embedded Systems, sponsored by Jane Street
  • , 18, of Dubnica nad Vahom, Slovakia

• Energy: Sustainable Materials and Design, sponsored by Siemens Energy
  • , 16, Arlington, Virginia

• Engineering Technology: Statics and Dynamics, sponsored by Google.org
  • , 16, of Plano, Texas

• Environmental Engineering, sponsored by Jacobs
  • , 17, of Mclean, Virginia
  • , 17, of Mclean, Virginia
  • , 15, of Burlington, Canada

• Materials Science, sponsored by Howmet Aerospace Foundation
  • , 17, of San Jose, California
  • , 17, of Andover, Massachusetts

• Mathematics, sponsored by Akamai Foundation
  • , 17, of Sofia, Bulgaria

• Microbiology, sponsored by Schattner Foundation
  • , 16, of Toronto, Canada

• Physics and Astronomy, sponsored by Jane Street
  • , 17, of Indianapolis, Indiana
  • , 17, of Lexington, Kentucky
  • , 17, of Sapporo, Japan

• Plant Sciences, sponsored by 快播视频
  • , 17, Oviedo, Florida

• Robotics and Intelligent Machines, sponsored Zoox
  • , 16, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
  • , 16, of Shanghai, China

• Software Design, sponsored by Microsoft
  • , 17, of Bentonville, Arkansas
  • , 18, of Bentonville, Arkansas
  • , 15, of Clane, Ireland

• Technology Enhances the Arts, sponsored by Midjourney
  • , 15, of Bellevue, Washington

• Translational Medical Science, sponsored by Regeneron
  • , 16, of Wexford, Pennsylvania

Resources:

• Media kit (photos, videos, fact sheet, and more): /regeneron-isef-2026-media-kit/
• Full list of all ISEF 2026 Grand Awards winners and Special Awards winners
• View all the finalists鈥� research projects here:

What is the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (Regeneron ISEF)?

Established in 1950, Regeneron ISEF, a program of 快播视频, is the world鈥檚 largest global 快播视频 competition for high school students. Through a global network of local, regional, and national science fairs, millions of students are encouraged to explore their passion for scientific inquiry. Top winners earn the right to compete at Regeneron ISEF where more than 1,700 finalists are judged across 22 different categories, competing for more than $7 million in awards and scholarships.

Who is sponsoring Regeneron ISEF?听

In 2019, Regeneron became the title sponsor of ISEF to help reward and celebrate the best and brightest young minds globally and encourage them to pursue careers in 快播视频 to positively impact the world. Regeneron听is also the title sponsor of the听Regeneron听Science Talent Search (STS), a program of the 快播视频. Regeneron鈥檚 support for these two premier programs will total more than听$300 million听from 2017 to 2036. Regeneron ISEF is supported by a community of additional sponsors, including entrepreneurs and organizations across a wide range of industries such as Adam R. Scripps Foundation, Akamai Foundation, Aramco, Arizona Science Center, Arizona State University, Burton Family Foundation, Caltech, Catalyzer Venture Partners, Central Arizona Project, Cesco Linguistic Services, Google.org, Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Howmet Aerospace Foundation, Insaco, Intel, Jacobs, Jane Street, Microsoft, Midjourney, Musical Instrument Museum, National Bank of Arizona, Natural Resources Defense Council, Pivotal Foundation, Schattner Foundation, Scripps Research, Siemens Energy, and Zoox.

Learn more at /isef/.

What is 快播视频?

快播视频 is a champion for science, dedicated to promoting the understanding and appreciation of science and the vital role it plays in human advancement. Established in 1921, 快播视频 is best known for its award-winning journalism through Science News and Science News Explores, its world-class science research competitions for students, including the Regeneron Science Talent Search, the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair and the听Thermo听Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge, and its 快播视频 Outreach programming that seeks to ensure that all students have an opportunity to pursue a career in 快播视频. A 501(c)(3) membership organization, 快播视频 for听Science听is committed to听inform,听educate,听and听inspire.

Learn more at听听and follow us on听,听,听, and听.

What is Regeneron?
听(NASDAQ: REGN) is a leading biotechnology company that invents, develops, and commercializes potentially life-transforming medicines for people with serious diseases. Founded and led by physician-scientists, our unique ability to听repeatedly and consistently translate science听into medicine has led to听numerous听approved treatments and product candidates in development, most of which were homegrown in our laboratories. Our medicines and听pipeline听are designed to help patients with eye diseases, allergic and inflammatory diseases, cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, hematologic conditions, infectious diseases, and rare diseases.

At Regeneron, science and responsible business practices go hand in hand. This conviction guides our , focused on delivering life-transforming medicines, expanding access to care, and supporting colleagues, communities and the ecosystems essential to human health. Through programming, including the , the and numerous 快播视频 initiatives, Regeneron supports science research pathways and ecosystems, helping cultivate the next generation of 快播视频 innovators. In addition, is an initiative founded by ^庐, Meharry Medical College, and other biopharmaceutical partners to help address inequities in 快播视频 careers and research. Regeneron has been repeatedly recognized for these efforts by the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices and the Civic 50 list of America鈥檚 most community-minded companies.

For more information, please visit听听or follow Regeneron on听,听,听,听and听.

Media Contacts

Tina Parisi Tuttle, Regeneron

Gayle Kansagor, 快播视频听

703-489-1131, gkansagor@societyforscience.org

###听

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Cory, 18, of New Rochelle, New York, received the $10,000 Peggy Scripps Award for Science Communication for his project exploring how memory shapes decision-making in the Prisoner鈥檚 Dilemma, a classic game theory scenario in which two individuals must decide whether to cooperate or act in their own self-interest. Using computer simulations and mathematical modeling, Cory found that memory can significantly improve outcomes, especially in more complex interactions, and that a mix of altruistic and self-interested behaviors creates the strongest cooperative systems. His findings could help inform the design of smarter artificial intelligence systems and programs that need to effectively interact with humans.

Now headed to the halls of MIT to study applied mathematics, Cory reflects on his Regeneron ISEF experience, his fascination with human cooperation and the sci-fi innovation he鈥檇 most like to see become reality.

What did it mean to you to be a top winner at Regeneron ISEF 2025?
It meant the world to me. I love conducting and presenting my research, but being recognized at that level showed me that my work has the potential to create change and help solve real-world problems.

What was your most memorable experience from the competition?
Honestly, the bus ride home. I traveled back with 19 other students from my regional fair, and what started as a group of strangers became a group of close friends in just one week. We spent 10 hours solving Rubik鈥檚 Cubes, watching horror movies and laughing about inside jokes from the competition. That sense of connection was unforgettable.

What have you been working on since Regeneron ISEF?
This past summer, I expanded on my previous research by looking not just at player traits, but at environmental conditions that encourage or discourage cooperation. I found that some environments make cooperation much easier, while others actively work against it. I鈥檓 excited to keep exploring these questions in college.

If you could see one sci-fi technology become reality today, what would it be?
Psychohistory from Isaac Asimov鈥檚 Foundation. My research looks at human behavior in relatively simple interactions, but psychohistory imagines predicting behavior at a massive societal scale. I鈥檇 be fascinated to see whether anything like that could ever become possible.

What advice would you give to the next generation of scientists?
Pursue what genuinely interests you. Awards and recognition are wonderful, but curiosity should be the real driver. I always come back to the idea of 鈥渒nowledge for the sake of knowledge.鈥� Anything that helps us better understand the world has value.

Check out the 快播视频 blog for the latest stories, and be sure to tune in to the听听on Friday, May 15 at 12 p.m. ET!

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The Opening Ceremony offered a lively start to what promises to be an unforgettable week. Here are some snapshots of the energy, inspiration and excitement that defined the evening. Follow the links throughout this post to jump to specific moments in the Opening Ceremony video on YouTube.

Barb Baker, a familiar face who has hosted Regeneron ISEF for many years, got the evening started, welcoming the 2026 finalists, some of the brightest young innovators in the world.

, President & CEO of 快播视频 and Executive Publisher of Science News, who acknowledged the truly global nature of this year鈥檚 fair. 听She mentioned that some finalists would be competing remotely this year due to the ongoing conflicts, embassy closures and other travel issues. These finalists are from Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Zimbabwe.

Maya encouraged finalists to continue embracing the characteristics that have propelled them to Regeneron ISEF: curiosity, passion, grit and responsibility. She said, 鈥淭he people around you might come from different countries, speak different languages or do research in different fields. But by being here, all these differences build a powerful commonality.鈥�

, Regeneron co-Founder, Board co-Chair, President and Chief Scientific Officer, also took the stage to share some of his own journey and challenge finalists to think boldly about the future they will help shape. He issued a lofty, but vital challenge: 鈥淲e need you, the best young minds, to take on our most important challenges. You all have a debt and responsibility to be the best ancestors you can be. We鈥檙e counting on you not just to inherit the future, but to build it, to fight for it and reimagine it. I dare you all to dream big, challenge everything, fail fearlessly and not hold back.鈥�

, finalists in the halls of the Phoenix Convention Center shared their favorite scientists, what they鈥檙e looking forward to at Regeneron ISEF and even gave a preview of their victory dances.

The evening with Ambassador Barbara Barrett, former U.S. Secretary of the Air Force, and Craig Barrett, retired CEO and Chairman of Intel. They shared personal stories from their long and illustrious careers and offered words of wisdom to the 2026 finalists.

Craig Barrett reflected on the ongoing conversation around artificial intelligence. 鈥淭here鈥檚 a lot of talk about how AI is going to change education in every possible way. Thirty years ago, people said the same thing about the personal computer, but that didn鈥檛 happen for a very specific reason. Computers are a tool, AI is a tool, but there鈥檚 nothing more magical than a good teacher.鈥�

Barbara Barrett offered finalists a reminder to savor the moment, encouraging them to see Regeneron ISEF not just as a competition, but as the beginning of something much bigger. 鈥淓njoy the next few days. This will be one of the most memorable occasions of your life, even though your lives will be filled with exciting and fabulous things. These several days will be among your most exciting days and will kick off so much of what will be the joy of your career. Dare greatly and do something wonderful.鈥�

Among the evening鈥檚 most memorable moments was the , one of Regeneron ISEF鈥檚 most beloved traditions, as finalists representing all 67 countries, regions and territories took the stage carrying their posters while video messages from each delegation were shared.

If the Opening Ceremony was any indication, there is plenty more to come at Regeneron ISEF. Check out the 快播视频 blog for the latest stories, and be sure to tune in to the听听on Friday, May 15 at 12 p.m. ET!

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Once finalists connect on the floor, they swap enamel pins that represent their nation and attach them to their lanyards.

The room where it all happened was more than just exchanging pins. Students were also exchanging names, project details and forming new friendships.

First-time ISEF finalist, , 17, from Kirkland, Washington says her team brought a variety of pins that best represent them.

鈥淥ne is an Alaska Airlines pin, since Alaska Airlines is really popular with us,鈥� Lahari says. 鈥淲e also brought the city of Bremerton flag, where our state fair is held, along with the American flag.鈥�

While Lahari says she has her eye on a Koala pin from Australia, one of the most interesting pins she received so far has been a dragon pin from Thailand.

Northern neighbors to Arizona, Utah finalists , 17 of Bountiful and , 15 of Layton brought a pin that represented The Beehive State.

鈥淲e鈥檙e a state that has many hard workers,鈥� Neve says. 鈥淲e all work together, so our pin is a beehive, and then we added a little atom to symbolize science fair.鈥�

While this marks Neve鈥檚 fourth ISEF, it is Samantha鈥檚 first!

鈥淛ust seeing so many people from different countries all in the same room has been really interesting,鈥� Samantha says. Another first-time competitor, , 16, from Jonesboro, Georgia, brought a pin that has the iconic Georgia peach on it with electrical wires. He says the pin represents Georgia鈥檚 culture of blending agriculture and technology in the state.

鈥淚鈥檓 looking forward to getting to know more of the people here,鈥� Darion said. 鈥淎s well as being able to go to the college fair and hearing from people who are responsible for admissions.鈥�

Not only were pins being exchanged, but , 17, a senior from Sapporo, Japan, brought pieces of his project to share. In his box full of goodies, he was handing out pins, matcha candy and origami cranes. Origami is the Japanese art and culture of creating intricate folds and designs from a single piece of paper.

鈥淚鈥檓 really looking forward to talking with many students who are the same age and talking about the research they鈥檙e in,鈥� Hikaru says.

With more than 1,700 young scientists from 49 U.S. states and over 60 countries, regions and territories, the pins exchanged at Regeneron ISEF are unique to each student and delegation, while reflecting a shared passion for 快播视频.

This year鈥檚 Pin Exchange was sponsored by the Adam R. Scripps Foundation. Follow the events at Regeneron ISEF 2026 through the快播视频鈥檚听,听听补苍诲听听肠丑补苍苍别濒蝉.

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Since 2020, Regeneron has served as the title sponsor of ISEF, celebrating the world鈥檚 brightest young minds and inspiring them to pursue careers in 快播视频 to positively impact their communities, their home countries and our shared planet. As title sponsor, Regeneron provides critical funding across all aspects of the fair, helping to create a transformative experience for the next generation of innovators. This year, Regeneron is joined by 26 additional sponsors, all contributing to a strong and growing global 快播视频 world.

A wide range of organizations are supporting Regeneron ISEF鈥檚 22 judging categories, including both returning partners and new contributors such as Google.org, Akamai Foundation, Howmet Aerospace Foundation, Jacobs, Jane Street, Microsoft, Midjourney, Natural Resources Defense Council, Schattner Foundation, Scripps Research, Siemens Energy and Zoox, founded by 快播视频 alumnus Jesse Levinson. Their support ensures that student achievements are recognized across a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines.

Additional sponsors support other engaging elements of this year鈥檚 program. Aramco is sponsoring the Excellence in Science and Technology Panel. Adam R. Scripps Foundation is sponsoring the annual听Pin Exchange, which is a unique event that fosters a sense of global community and camaraderie among the young scientists.

Intel Education Outreach Day is supported by title sponsor Intel as well as Aramco, Burton Family Foundation, Jacobs and Pivotal Foundation. The event will welcome students from across the Southern Arizona area to Regeneron ISEF for a day of interactive 快播视频 activities, including opportunities to meet the finalists and learn about their projects.

The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, as in previous years, will support the Gordon E. Moore Award for Positive Outcomes for Future Generations. Learn more about the top awards听here.

The Student Mixer is sponsored by Arizona State University, Catalyzer Venture Partners is sponsoring the Alumni Mixer, and Insaco is sponsoring the Hub in the Finalist Exhibit Hall.

ISEF鈥檚 lead technology sponsor is Akamai Foundation and Cesco Linguistic Services is providing in-kind translation services. Burton Family Foundation, Central Arizona Project, and National Bank of Arizona are sponsoring the Phoenix City Event for finalists at Chase Field. Caltech is returning as a general sponsor.

The Musical Instrument Museum, with more than 3,700 musical instruments on display from every country, and Arizona Science Center, featuring more than 300 hands-on 快播视频 exhibits, are providing free admission to ISEF finalists during ISEF week as in-kind sponsors.

Together, these sponsors play a vital role in making Regeneron ISEF possible, helping to elevate the next generation of scientists and engineers and strengthen a global community of young innovators.

Be sure to tune in on May 11, at 7:00 p.m. ET !

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By combining electrical, mechanical and chemical engineering methods, Benjamin designed a system that improves efficiency while dramatically lowering costs compared to commercial recycling machines. Since his win, he has continued refining his work, mentoring fellow students and thinking even bigger about the future of sustainable manufacturing.

We caught up with Benjamin to hear more about his experience at Regeneron ISEF, what he鈥檚 working on now and the scientific advancements he hopes to see one day become reality.

1. What did it mean to you to be a top winner at Regeneron ISEF 2025?

Being a top winner at Regeneron ISEF 2025 came as such a surprise to me, and the award means so much because I know how many phenomenal projects there were at ISEF. This award has led to so many new opportunities and experiences that I am incredibly grateful for and would not have had otherwise, including presenting at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) conference and becoming an American Junior Academy of Sciences (AJAS) fellow.

The recognition also gave me the chance to help other students with their presentations and projects and give back to the science fair community. Most importantly, my research in plastic recycling and extrusion has solidified my future plans to study advanced manufacturing and mechanical or materials engineering in college. It has also motivated me to continue improving my machine and pursue the next iteration of my research in the 2027 science fair cycle.

2. What was your most memorable experience from the competition?

The most memorable moment from the competition was hearing my name announced on stage for the Regeneron Young Scientist Award. But beyond the award itself, the most impactful part of ISEF was meeting students from all over the world.

This was the first time I had attended an event with so many like-minded people who shared my passion for science and engineering. I made friendships and connections that I still have today, and I will never forget the people I met during my time at ISEF.

3. What have you been working on since Regeneron ISEF?

Since ISEF, I have mainly been preparing to continue my research over the summer. I鈥檝e spent countless hours reorganizing my workshop and acquiring new tools and equipment so I can create a better space for research and development.

I鈥檓 currently planning the next phase of my work, including improving my extrusion-pultrusion machine to make it even more efficient and commercially viable. I also hope to develop a new machine capable of creating high-temperature composite filaments.

Outside of my own research, I co-founded a club at my school called Tech Forge, where students learn how to use tools, engineer components and complete community service projects. One of our recent projects involved designing, wiring, coding and assembling a fully functional 10-foot conveyor belt inspired by the Polar Express for our school鈥檚 annual Santa Shop event.

4. If you could make one sci-fi technology real today, what would it be?

I would love to see teleportation become reality.

While I do not think it would necessarily be the best solution for human transportation because there would inevitably be mistakes and accidents, it could completely transform logistics and manufacturing industries. Teleportation could enable the extraction and movement of resources from almost anywhere, including deep underground or even throughout the solar system. That could dramatically improve access to energy and materials while helping address global resource shortages.

5. What advice would you give to inspire the next generation of scientists?

The most important thing in science and engineering projects is to stay passionate about your research while also maintaining balance in your life.

During parts of my project, I prioritized research over things like sleep and spending time with friends. Since winning, I鈥檝e realized how important it is to take care of your health and wellness while still pursuing your goals.

At the same time, research is something anyone can do, and there are many ways to get involved regardless of experience level. Every student who has the opportunity to pursue research should try it, because the scientific, presentation and problem-solving skills you develop will stay with you for the rest of your life.

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Originally from a small village in Slovakia and now studying at Masaryk University in Brno, the second largest university in the Czech Republic, Adam鈥檚 work has the potential to significantly reduce the cost and complexity of manufacturing treatments targeting RNA viruses such as COVID-19, Ebola and Zika. His research has drawn international attention, with features in and . By rethinking the chemical synthesis process, Adam demonstrates how innovative thinking can transform both science and industry.

To learn more about Adam鈥檚 project, visit:

We caught up with Adam recently to learn more about his experience at Regeneron ISEF, what drives his work and what鈥檚 next for him.

What did it mean to you to be a top winner at Regeneron ISEF 2025?
All of the emotions are really hard to describe in words, but it was a huge push forward for me and a sign that it鈥檚 still worth it to make scientific discoveries. It taught me not to worry about people who don鈥檛 believe in you, because in the end, the people who understand your work will truly appreciate it.

What was your most memorable experience from the competition?
For me, it was the incredible moments after winning, watching the huge crowd applauding and standing at the center of it all. It was truly unforgettable. But, also the inspiring talks we heard from various guests from the industry meant a lot.

What have you been working on or exploring since Regeneron ISEF?
As I said right after winning, my goal is to establish a widely used industrial process for manufacturing various chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, dyes and flavorings, starting from corn cob waste materials.

Since my win, I鈥檝e been working day and night to pursue these goals. Getting the necessary practical data for patents takes time, especially while attending university, but I have big plans for 2026. Hopefully, by the end of the year, I鈥檒l have my process working in industry and be able to document that journey along the way.

If you had unlimited resources, what would you invent or pursue next?
With unlimited resources, I would focus on upgrading mineral and fuel extraction methods so we would no longer need to destroy precious habitats to obtain the resources we need.

What advice would you give to inspire the next generation of scientists?
I would advise them to talk with as many people as possible about science and our advancements. Oftentimes, even a small interaction can push our lives forward in a huge way, so go and spread science.

In just a few weeks, the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair 2026 will convene nearly 2,000 young scientists from around the world, each building on years of research, much like Adam Koval膷铆k did last year. Regeneron ISEF is made possible by a dedicated network of volunteers, judges and supporters. As Phoenix approaches, there is still time to take part. Learn more about how to get involved.

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This is a significant听milestone听for the country, where听快播视频 education听is a growing priority for students.听听

Holly Young,听Senior Advisor Communications & Strategic Events听at听,听reflects on the听process听of bringing听the affiliated fair to听fruition.听听

Royal 快播视频 Te Ap膩rangi is a nonprofit organization that advances and promotes science, technology and the humanities and serves as New Zealand鈥檚 national academy of scholars and researchers.听听

The New Zealand science and technology fair scene is driven by passionate volunteers and young students who 鈥渇ollow their curiosity鈥�, Holly says. Regional fairs and STEAM academies have been running for over 50 years. However, there has been no national fair since 2014, leaving some programs unsupported and ultimately shut down. 听

鈥淭e听Ap膩rangi听has become an affiliate and will use this as a springboard to support the regional fairs, to foster scientific integrity听and to inspire students and fair听organizers听to take their love of STEAM to the next level,鈥澨鼿olly says.听听

With this new affiliated fair, Holly says听teachers and students听may feel听inspired to attend an international competition.听This听national fair听hopes that more students are motivated to explore and complete听projects.听听

鈥淲e hope听to听increase opportunities to engage with diverse communities and our Indigenous M膩ori and Pacific students who are traditionally underrepresented in these activities,鈥� Holly says.听听

Last year, in May 2025,听听placed in their categories听representing听New Zealand in the Australian Delegation.听听

Isabelle says her experience felt surreal.听听

鈥淚magine being surrounded by听nearly 2,000听students from all over the world, each with projects that could genuinely change lives. It was overwhelming at first, but also incredibly inspiring,鈥� Isabelle says. 鈥淚 loved听the energy.听Everyone was so passionate,听curious听and eager to share ideas. I came away with new friends, new perspectives听and deep joy and confidence in what young people can achieve.鈥�听

Isabelle placed third in the chemistry category for her project:听.听听

鈥淲hen they called my name, I froze for a second. I听couldn’t听believe it,鈥� Isabelle says. 鈥淚 felt incredibly grateful for the support I had received from mentors, my family听and everyone who encouraged me along the way.听Representing听New Zealand on an international platform was an听honor听that I听wouldn鈥檛听have been able to achieve without an amazing community backing me.鈥�听

Jesse Rumball-Smith听will return for , representing New Zealand and its new delegation.听听

鈥淚SEF 2025 blew me away,鈥� Jesse says. 鈥淭he most special part was meeting others who are passionate, diverse and far smarter than me, from across the globe. They were what made ISEF truly mind-blowing. I still talk to my ISEF friends to this day and would never have ended up at ISEF if it wasn鈥檛 for such passionate advocates.鈥澨�听

Jesse鈥檚听ISEF听story听began听in 2023.听

鈥淚听reached out to听the听听(TISF) and convinced them to听allow听New Zealand听to return after a听five-year听hiatus听due to funding challenges,鈥� Jesse says.听听

After numerous emails and LinkedIn direct messages, Jesse secured enough funding to make the trip to the Taiwan International Science Fair. He ended up serving as the Head of Delegation, Chaperone, and competitor all at once.听

鈥淚鈥檓 incredibly grateful to everyone who made my journey possible,鈥� Jesse says. 鈥淚鈥檓 stoked to have helped get the ball rolling for future Kiwis to have a far easier ISEF qualification.鈥�听

Both Jesse and听Isabelle share similar advice when it comes to听representing听New Zealand at ISEF.听Pick a project that one听truly cares听about.听听

鈥淚听don鈥檛听think the听only听goal should ever be to听win a medal听or a prize.听The core of ISEF, I believe, is to disperse curiosity, passion听and good through the sharing of ideas and听meeting听people,鈥� Jesse says.听听

鈥淓xplore what excites you enough to spend late nights researching and testing. Additionally,听don鈥檛听be afraid to ask for help. Mentors,听teachers听and peers can give you insights that make your project stronger,鈥� Isabelle says.听听

You can learn more about their time at ISEF in this听.听听

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As Regeneron ISEF heads to Phoenix, Arizona this spring (May 9-15) we had a chance to catch up with Nicolien Buholzer, Volunteer Manager at 快播视频, about her background and the many ways to get involved. Nicolien oversees the recruitment of thousands of volunteers and interpreters for the fair. She brings more than a decade of experience working in youth-focused spaces. Before joining the 快播视频, Nicolien served as Programs Director at the Homeless Children鈥檚 Playtime Project, where she ran trauma-informed play programs for children experiencing homelessness in the Washington D.C. metro area.

Below, she shares more about her path and how you can be part of Regeneron ISEF this year.

Last year was your first year at Regeneron ISEF. In your second year at the 快播视频, you serve as the Volunteer Manager for Regeneron ISEF 2026 in Phoenix. Can you tell us a bit about your background?

I have my undergraduate degree in journalism, but after college I spent some years living in Fairbanks, Alaska, and Los Angeles, and found my way into education and youth nonprofit spaces. I found so much fulfillment working with youth, and especially loved finding ways to build and foster community by finding passionate volunteers and helping connect them with fulfilling opportunities.

Historically, I鈥檝e mostly worked in literacy or social services spaces, and joining the 快播视频 was a new foray into the competitive 快播视频 world. It鈥檚 been exciting learning about the 快播视频 ecosystem across the country, and connecting with so many passionate, brilliant people since joining the team.

In one or two sentences, why are volunteers and judges essential to making Regeneron ISEF happen?

Truly, Regeneron ISEF couldn鈥檛 happen without the support of generous volunteers and judges. Obviously, there is no Grand Awards without the incredible commitment of the hundreds of judges who dedicate a full day to interviewing finalists and reviewing their projects, but there鈥檚 also so much that goes on behind the scenes to power this event.

Volunteers welcome finalists and their delegations at registration, coordinate the tools and supplies finalists need to set up their projects, and even serve as interpreters for finalists who don鈥檛 speak English, ensuring this international event can stay accessible to brilliant students from all over the world.

What are the main ways someone can get involved this year in Phoenix? What do these volunteer opportunities entail?

There are tons of ways General Volunteers help behind the scenes: they greet finalists and their Official Parties at registration, coordinate the tools and supplies in the Finalist Exhibit Hall and more. General Volunteers get assigned specific roles once they check in on-site, depending on our needs and their interests.

If you meet the qualifications (see below), being a Grand Awards Judge is one of the best ways to get fully immersed in Regeneron ISEF. On Wednesday, May 13, judges will interview a selection of finalists in their category and then caucus with their fellow judges to determine category winners.

Serving as a Display & Safety (D&S) Inspector is one of the best ways as a volunteer to actually meet and interact with finalists. After a brief training, D&S Inspectors review projects to make ensure they meet display and safety guidelines for booth setup, serving as a crucial step in helping finalists get everything ready for judging. To register for this opportunity, sign up as a 鈥済eneral volunteer鈥� through the volunteer registration and add D&S shifts to your schedule during the last phase of your registration.

At Regeneron ISEF judging is centered on a thoughtful exchange between judges and finalists. To ensure language is never a barrier, interpreters are assigned to specific projects to help facilitate clear communication during the question and answer process for finalists who don鈥檛 speak English. Interpreters play a critical role in assisting with a fair judging experience during judging on Wednesday, May 13.

Education Outreach Day
The Thursday of Regeneron ISEF week is one of our most exciting days, also known as Intel Education Outreach Day. On this day, we open our doors to hundreds of local schools to participate in a unique 快播视频 field trip experience. We鈥檙e looking for volunteers, schools and exhibitors to support this amazing day. Note: The deadline for schools and exhibitors to sign up is March 31.

Sponsors or Corporate Teams
Join the exclusive group of forward-thinking corporations, foundations, organizations and individuals that provide support for ISEF. ISEF sponsors and partners are essential to the success of the program and to the future of 快播视频.

What are the requirements to serve as a Grand Award judge?
Regeneron ISEF finalists are putting out work that鈥檚 often at a grad student (or even higher!) level, so it takes an incredibly qualified team of individuals to judge their projects. For that reason, our Grand Awards judges must meet one of the following qualifications:

• A minimum of six years of related professional experience beyond receiving their bachelor鈥檚 degree, OR
• A Ph.D., M.D. or equivalent (D.O., D.D.S., D.V.M., etc.) degree, and related professional experience if the degree was not recently granted, OR
• Be a current graduate student with more than four years of doctoral-level research experience or within one year of doctoral dissertation defense

It鈥檚 important to note that, due to the incredible level of research these finalists are bringing to Regeneron ISEF, 鈥減rofessional experience鈥� for our purposes does not include K鈥�12 education experience.

If you meet these qualifications, you鈥檙e invited to apply to be a judge in one of our 22 categories. If selected, you鈥檒l be required to volunteer on-site all day on Wednesday, May 13, at the Phoenix Convention Center.

What languages are most needed for interpreters this year?
Our biggest interpretation needs for the 2026 Regeneron ISEF include Spanish, Thai, Turkish, Vietnamese, Korean and Portuguese. Of course, that鈥檚 not to say those are the only languages we need support in.

A huge thing I want to note is that there is absolutely no requirement that interpreters have prior professional or 快播视频 experience. A lot of the most technical language is already in English, and interpreters also get time with their finalists before project judging starts, when they can learn many of the terms the finalist will talk about most.

Which roles are currently most urgent to fill?
With just about two months to go before Regeneron ISEF 2026, our highest current needs are for volunteer Display & Safety Inspectors, judges in life sciences categories (such as plant sciences, animal sciences and more) and interpreters.

What is the time commitment during event week (May 9鈥�15, 2026)?
One of the great things about looking to support Regeneron ISEF is that you can typically find the time commitment that works for you. At minimum, we ask for a four-hour commitment as a general volunteer, while judging can be upwards of 10 hours.

Where should people go to learn more?

The best place to learn more is the Regeneron ISEF page on the 快播视频 website! Here, you’ll be able to navigate to dive deeper into any of the topics you’re most interested in. You can also reach out to ISEFvolunteer@societyforscience.org and we can point you in the right direction.

The post How to Get Involved at Regeneron ISEF: A Q&A with Volunteer Manager Nicolien Buholzer appeared first on 快播视频.