The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Anaheim, Calif. is where the high schoolers of today that will change the world go to meet their future peers. And it’s where Westlake High School’s Vincent Batts is headed in May.
He’ll compete with 2,000 students from over 80 countries and showcase his research on “Usage of Conductive Materials to Reduce Pressure Sensor Cost.” After the fair and high school graduation, the future STEM leader is headed to Georgia Tech.
Principal Jamar Robinson made the announcement via Twitter earlier this week. Batts is the first in the school’s history to participate in the prestigious pre-college competition at this level.
“What a unique and special talent you are sir,” tweeted Principal Robinson. “Georgia Tech is getting an amazing scientist and I can’t wait to see what you do next!”
Established in 1950, ISEF gives the world’s best and brightest young scientists a global stage to share their outstanding STEM research in 21 different categories including biochemistry, behavioral and social sciences, environmental engineering, mathematics, robotics and intelligent machines, systems software and translational medical science.
Each year, over 175,000 students compete in more than 420 affiliated high school science fairs around the world in hopes of advancing to the international fair. This year’s finalists will compete for nearly $5 million in awards, prizes and scholarships. The top prize is $75,000 in cash.
This is the first year that Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. will serve as ISEF’s title sponsor. Founded and led for 30 years by physician-scientists, the biotechnology company invents life-transforming medicines for people with serious diseases.
“Regeneron is committed to helping engage and inspire the next generation of scientific innovators, as we believe there is nothing more important for helping address the truly existential threats facing humankind – from disease to climate change,” said George D. Yancopoulos, M.D., Ph.D., Co-founder, President and Chief Scientific Officer.
ISEF takes place May 10 – 15, 2020. Projects are judged by a host of scientists on Wednesday and prizes will be awarded on Friday. According to a representative from Society for Science & the Public, the organization that produces the fair, the event considered to be the world’s most powerful STEM talent pipeline. Past participants have launched their own companies and become revered members of the academic community, among other achievements.
“As a product of these programs myself, I know firsthand how they can change a young person’s life by providing the experiences and challenges, as well as the confidence, that one can make a change in the world through science,” said Yancopoulos.
Photo Credit: Westlake High School