Ossining Students Earn Top Awards at International Science Competition

Since their enrollment in the Science Research Program at Ossining High School, seniors Sarah Jennings and Sarah Gardner have embarked on a remarkable journey of scientific achievement. This journey culminated in their outstanding triumph at the esteemed 2023 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), held on May 14 -19 in Dallas, Texas. Throughout a series of preceding research competitions, both students demonstrated unwavering dedication and a profound passion for scientific exploration. Their journey was characterized by resilience, determination, and an unwavering pursuit of scientific excellence, ultimately leading them to the prestigious stage of ISEF, where they were honored with Grand Awards for their exceptional projects.

Sarah Jennings, a brilliant young scientist, secured an impressive first place in the Cellular and Molecular Biology category at ISEF. Her ground-breaking research revealed critical interactions between two vital organelles responsible for regulating bioenergetics and metabolism in both disease and health. Sarah's work has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of cellular biology and pave the way for groundbreaking advancements in medicine. In recognition of her outstanding achievement, Sarah was awarded a cash prize of $5000. Furthermore, Ossining High School received $1000, and the local WESEF science fair was awarded $1000 on behalf of Sarah Jennings' victory.

Sarah J. expressed her excitement and gratitude, saying, "Throughout my journey in science research, I have come to appreciate the value of collaboration. Achieving this success was truly a team effort, and it wasn't just me. I’m grateful for the support of my mentor, who played a pivotal role, as well as my incredible science teachers who guided me throughout this process. And my peers, both those I met at ISEF whose work served as inspiration, and those closer to home at my school. Without their support, I wouldn't be where I am today.”

Sarah Gardner, another brilliant mind from Ossining High School, secured second place in the Physics and Astronomy category at the competition. Her project in astrophysics presented an inventive strategy for enhancing the examination of black hole properties based on their host galaxy size. Sarah's innovative approach has the potential to reshape our understanding of these enigmatic cosmic phenomena and open up new avenues of research in astrophysics. Her achievement earned her a cash prize of $2000.

Sarah G. shared her enthusiasm and reflected on her experience, stating, “Participating in this competition really ignited my passion for science and engineering. Being surrounded by individuals from all corners of the world who shared that same passion for their work was incredibly inspiring. These science competitions have a way of pushing us to recognize our capabilities and tap into our full potential. They serve as a catalyst for self-realization and personal growth.”

In addition to Sarah Jennings and Sarah Gardner's victories, Science Research seniors Audrey Schnecker, Lucy Roach, and Ada Uysal also attended ISEF as finalists, reflecting the exceptional caliber of scientific inquiry fostered by Ossining High School's Science Research Program.

Ada's project in material science showcased her creative talents by utilizing novel semiconductor morphologies to enhance photon emission. Her work has profound implications for various applications such as photovoltaics and cybersecurity.

Audrey's environmental science project shed light on the increasing risks of tick exposures in school yards, specifically due to the arrival of a newly invasive tick species in New York. Her research serves as a valuable resource for understanding and mitigating the impact of these vectors on public health.

Lucy's behavioral research centered around a novel smartphone app designed to monitor fatigue in high school athletes using a finger tap test. Her pioneering methodology has the potential to prevent sports injuries by identifying fatigue levels and promoting safer training practices.

Angelo Piccirillo, OHS Science Teacher and Co-Director of the Science Research Program, expressed his pride and admiration for the students, stating, "Both Sarah’s have demonstrated remarkable dedication, intellect, and ingenuity throughout their scientific journeys. Every day, I am inspired by the passion and curiosity of all my students, especially after witnessing their extraordinary achievements on the international stage at ISEF."

Valerie Holmes, OHS Science Teacher and Co-Director of the Science Research Program, commended the students for their hard work and the excellence they displayed at the competition. "Our students’ achievements at ISEF highlight the transformative impact of our Science Research Program and the invaluable mentorship provided by our dedicated teachers. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments and look forward to witnessing their continued success as they shape the future of scientific discovery," she said.

The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is the world's largest and most prestigious pre-college science competition. Bringing together exceptional young minds from around the globe, ISEF provides a platform for students to showcase their scientific discoveries and innovations. This year, Ossining High School's Science Research students emerged as shining stars among the brightest scientific talents worldwide.