Ossining Science Research Student Named a Finalist in Prestigious Siemens Competition

Ossining High School senior Skyler Jones’ science research project is one of 60 in the country that was chosen as a regional finalist in the 2017 Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology.

Skyler’s research on perovskite crystals as semiconductors in solar cells is one of 30 individual projects selected; the other 30 were submitted by teams. A total of 101 students were selected as regional finalists.

The Siemens Foundation received more than 1,860 applications this year in the prestigious national competition. There were 491 semifinalists. The finalists, all of whom will receive at least $1,000 in scholarships, will advance to the regionals next month and will have a shot at winning the top prize of $100,000.

Skyler, 17, said her research combines her interest in chemistry, physics and alternative energy. She has been studying the use of perovskite crystals as semiconductors in solar cells, which are the parts of the solar panels that convert sunlight into electricity. They are more efficient and less expensive than silicon solar cells, which are the industry standard, and they don’t have to be as pure, she said.

“If we can figure out why perovskites are so efficient despite their low purity, we can manufacture semiconductors that are just as efficient as today’s standards but much cheaper,” she said.

Skyler conducted her research at Columbia University’s XYZ Lab with Xiaoyang Zhu, a professor of nanoscience and chemistry at the school.

Based on Skyler’s experience in OHS’ Science Research Program, she wants to study chemistry and physics in college and continue researching solar semiconductors. “I’ve really loved this research project,” she said.

The Science Research Program has been a great experience, Skyler said. Teachers Valerie Holmes and Angelo Piccirillo are great resources, as are fellow students and alumni in the program. The students read and critique one another’s papers. It’s a strong community of people helping one another, Skyler said.

Ms. Holmes said Skyler is an inspiring student. "If kids like here are willing to tackle advanced concepts in physics, we will shortly solve the energy crisis using cutting-edge photovoltaics," Ms. Holmes said. "She is unstoppable."

Last year, Skyler attended the International Sustainable World (Engineering Energy Environment) Project Olympiad in Houston after she won first place in chemistry and was an overall finalist in the Westchester Science & Engineering Fair last March. “It was really cool because the whole fair is centered around sustainability issues,” she said.

For the Siemens Competition regional finals, Skyler will present her work and answer questions from a panel of judges at Carnegie Mellon University in Pennsylvania. The session will be held online in mid-November.

The national finals will be held at George Washington University in Washington Dec. 4-5. Winners will receive a total of $500,000 in scholarships, including the two top prizes of $100,000 each and $50,000 for second place. Unlike in past years, all other finalists will receive $25,000 in scholarships.