Indian American high school senior Achyuta Rajaram claimed the top spot and a $250,000 cash prize in the Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) competition, which is currently in its 83rd year and regarded as America’s oldest and most esteemed science and math contest for high school seniors.
Rajaram, a student at Phillips Exeter Academy, earned the prestigious award for his development of an automated method to identify the components of a computer model involved in decision-making processes. This innovation enhances understanding of how algorithms function, aiding in their optimization for effectiveness, fairness, and safety, as stated by the competition organizers.
Furthermore, Rajaram holds leadership roles in the physics, chemistry, and chess clubs at Phillips Exeter Academy. Expressing his reaction and future aspirations in a video message, he announced plans to continue studying interpretability, with intentions to pursue computer science at MIT, delving deeper into comprehending the workings of models and the nature of intelligence.
In addition to Rajaram’s achievement, Arnav Chakravarthy secured the ninth position and received a $50,000 award for his research on the genetic origins of macrophages, a type of immune cell, across various body organs. Chakravarthy is notably involved in leadership roles within the California Future Business Leaders of America and serves as the co-founder and CEO of an AI-powered startup catering to scientific research workflows.
Aditi Avinash, named the Seaborg Award winner, represented the Regeneron Science Talent Search class of 2024. Avinash, a student at Rock Canyon High School, holds leadership positions in the Science National Honors Society and Health Occupations Students of America.
Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of the Society for Science and Executive Publisher of Science News, lauded the remarkable intellect and ingenuity demonstrated by the students, emphasizing the importance of their groundbreaking innovations in addressing societal challenges. Additionally, George D. Yancopoulos, MD., Ph.D., co-founder, board co-chair, president, and chief scientific officer of Regeneron, commended the finalists for their achievements, expressing optimism for their potential to contribute major innovative breakthroughs benefiting humanity.
