PHOENIX, Arizona, May 15, 2026
The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2026, the world’s largest pre-college STEM competition, awarded more than $7 million to outstanding young researchers from across the globe. Organized by Society for Science and sponsored by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, this year’s competition brought together over 1,700 finalists from more than 67 countries, regions, and territories at the Phoenix Convention Center. The event highlighted groundbreaking innovations in AI, environmental science, mathematics, biomedical engineering, neuroscience, and sustainability, reinforcing the growing influence of young scientists on the future of global research and technology.
Hikaru Kuribayashi Wins Top $100,000 Innovator Award
The highest honor of the competition, the George D. Yancopoulos Innovator Award, valued at $100,000, was awarded to Hikaru Kuribayashi, 17, from Sapporo, Japan. Hikaru developed a sophisticated simulation program capable of predicting complex folding structures similar to origami patterns. His software uses the advanced statistical technique known as Markov Chain Monte Carlo, enabling it to analyze multiple folding possibilities simultaneously rather than one pathway at a time. The project successfully predicted natural folding systems, including the folding mechanism of a ladybug’s wings. Researchers believe this innovation could support the future design of satellite solar sails, compact medical devices, aerospace engineering systems, and emergency shelters that require efficient folding and deployment mechanisms. The achievement reflects the increasing role of computational modeling and AI-assisted engineering in solving real-world industrial and scientific challenges.
Environmental, Medical and Mathematical Innovations Shine
Several additional young scientists received major honors for projects addressing critical global issues. Lakshmi Agrawal, 18, from Bellevue, Washington, earned the $75,000 Regeneron Young Scientist Award for creating a biodegradable sponge filter made from jute plant waste capable of removing toxic tire-related pollutants such as 6PPD-quinone from contaminated water. Laboratory tests demonstrated the sponge could remove up to 80% of harmful pollutants, offering a lower-cost and environmentally sustainable approach for protecting aquatic ecosystems and drinking water supplies. Her innovation also required 85% less production energy and reduced costs by nearly 98% compared with existing technologies.
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Another $75,000 Young Scientist Award was presented to Nikola Veselinov, 17, of Sofia, Bulgaria, for his breakthrough work in advanced mathematics. Nikola developed a new theorem identifying conditions under which certain equations cannot be solved using standard mathematical functions. By combining concepts from topology, symmetry analysis, and Galois theory, his work may influence future developments in theoretical physics, space motion analysis, and complex computational systems.
AI, Neuroscience and Sustainability Projects Gain Attention
Other top-winning projects showcased how young innovators are using artificial intelligence, robotics, and biomedical science to tackle urgent global challenges. Evan Budz, 15, from Ontario, Canada, received a $50,000 award for building an AI-powered underwater imaging robot designed to detect microscopic plastic particles in water sources with 94% accuracy. The technology could significantly improve global monitoring of microplastic pollution.
In the field of mental health technology, Anusha Arora, 15, of Bellevue, Washington, earned a $50,000 STEM Excellence Prize for developing a portable AI-driven music therapy device that adapts music in real time based on emotional feedback from users. The system demonstrated measurable reductions in stress and anxiety levels during testing, highlighting the expanding role of digital therapeutics and AI-assisted healthcare solutions.
Biomedical innovation also gained strong recognition during the competition. Illaria Liedtke, 17, of Rye, New York, developed a method of using magnetic fields to influence astrocyte brain cell signaling, potentially opening new pathways for non-invasive neurological therapies. Meanwhile, Evan Morris, 18, from Minnesota, introduced a low-cost ultrasound-based seizure interruption system using genetically modified worms to model epilepsy treatment strategies.
The 2026 Regeneron ISEF demonstrated that the next generation of scientists is already contributing meaningful advances in environmental sustainability, medical research, artificial intelligence, and engineering innovation. Industry leaders emphasized that investing in young STEM talent is essential for addressing future global healthcare, climate, and technological challenges.
Source: Regeneron Pharmaceuticals press release
