International Journal of Science and Innovation
Peer Review Journal
Welcome to International Journal of Science and Innovation
Spring 2026 IJSI Winners
Best Abstract Award 2026
Christopher Trinidad
Christopher Trinidad is a 10th grade student from Bishop Kenny High School of Jacksonville, Florida and has a deep passion for neurology. He aspires to pursue a career in neurosurgery. Christopher is actively involved in scientific research, in which he developed his own emotion prediction model using electroencephalogram (EEG) data combined with using VR/music to help stroke victims recover. Currently, he is working on building an AI VR therapist that utilizes EEG-based emotion prediction. Last year, Christopher competed at the Florida State Science Fair and the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). He also won the bronze medal at the International Genius Olympiad. Beyond science fair, Christopher is the Philharmonic pianist and Premier violinist in the Jacksonville Youth Orchestra, also receiving a superior rating in the FFMC festival. He also participated in the Congress of Future Medical Leaders and is a Member of the National Society of High School Scholars.
Best Abstract Award 2026
Nourin Ibrahim
Nourin Ibrahem is a Grade 11 Obour STEM student with a strong passion in biology, chemistry, and nanomedicine. Her interests lay specifically in the field of cancer research and molecular processes involved in disease development and treatment. Nourin developed her nanomedicine project (NanoGo-3C) Magnetically Controlled Nanobots with AI-Integrated Multi Modal Wearable and Mobile Mentoring Platform Integration for Adaptive Physiological Monitoring for Precision (GGB) Cancer Therapy, which won the bronze medal in EISTF (Egypt international science & technology fair) competition in the Embedded Systems and Software category. She has attended various international research programs involving exposure to scientific inquiry between biology and robotic-engineering. Alongside her scientific pursuits, Nourin has a deep cultural and literacy interest; she is a writer who is passionate in history and has authored a published book. Her long-term goal is to specialize in Molecular Biology and Chemistry and become a cancer researcher, contributing to innovative therapies at the intersection of science, technology, and medicine.
Best Research Award 2026
Mahmoud Hussain
Mahmoud Hussain is a high school student with a strong interest in neuroscience, computational biology, and biomedical engineering. His work centers on leveraging data-driven technologies to better understand neurological disorders and advance methods for early diagnosis. Mahmoud developed a physiological state-gated multimodal smartwatch system for early detection of Parkinson's disease, integrating motion data with autonomic and sleep signals to identify state-dependent tremor patterns. His work explores how physiological context such as stress, circadian rhythms, and autonomic activity can improve the accuracy of wearable diagnostic models. Beyond this project, Mahmoud has conducted research on artificial intelligence methods for predicting antidepressant treatment response and has participated in international research programs in neuroscience and precision medicine. He is a recipient of the Lumiere Scholars Essay Distinction Award and a Global Nominee in the NASA International Space Apps Challenge. Mahmoud aspires to become a physician-scientist dedicated to advancing neurological research and developing accessible technologies for early disease detection.
Best Abstract Award 2026
Rithvik Venisetty
Rithvik Venisetty, a senior from Grand Blanc High School, is a student with an avid passion for medicine and computational biology. His work revolves around bispecific antibody development and machine learning, integrating technology into drug design with a new perspective. Computational biology provided him the opportunity to conduct biological research without laboratory equipment, which was necessary due to limited resources. His research was recognized at various ACS conferences and even won a 4th award at ISEF. Beyond research, however, he is the founder of his Science Olympiad chapter, and he helps students conduct their own research. He is also the author of Breaking Biology, a fully illustrated guide to various biological concepts and the future of biotechnology. By being a leader for STEM in his community, he hopes to inspire more students to take an active role in their education by creating their own inquiries and pursuing their passions.
Best Abstract Award 2025
Curtis Cecelia, Sia Handa, Alexa Dengler, and Sky Davis
The student research team from Hereford High School, a rural public school in Maryland, brings together diverse backgrounds and interests to pursue high-impact studies in biochemistry. In partnership with Stevenson University, the team conducted original investigations into novel cisplatin analogs, evaluating ruthenium and iron complexes as potentially safer alternatives to traditional chemotherapy. Despite limited access to advanced research opportunities in their rural community, the students established strong collaborations with university mentors and gained hands-on experience in fluorescence-based assays, drug synthesis, and cancer biology. Beyond their own project, they launched the Scientific Pathways Initiative, designed to create opportunities for other Hereford High School students to engage in research across disciplines under the guidance of Stevenson faculty. By proving that students from underserved settings can meaningfully contribute to cutting-edge science, the team seeks to inspire the next generation of young researchers to pursue discovery and innovation.
Best Abstract Award 2025
Aarnav Mohanty
Aarnav Mohanty is a high school sophomore at South Iredell High School in Statesville, North Carolina, with a strong interest in medicine and biomedical sciences, particularly biology, biotechnology, and cardiology. He is deeply motivated to apply scientific research and clinical knowledge to address real world medical challenges and improve patient outcomes. Aarnav is actively involved in academic and leadership programs, including Science Fair and Olympiad competitions, SkillsUSA, Robotics, MathCounts, DECA, Battle of the Books, and Crosby Scholars. In addition to his academic pursuits, he is committed to community service, volunteering with organizations such as Discovery Place, Crosby Scholars, and Christian Mission, as well as other social and healthcare related initiatives in the Mooresville, Davidson, Huntersville, and Charlotte areas. Aarnav aspires to pursue a career in medicine, emphasizing compassionate, patient-centered care that addresses individuals beyond their diagnoses.
Best Research Award 2025
Adhrit Gopi and Vedant Panday
Adhrit Gopi and Vedant Panday are freshmen at Lambert High School in Georgia. Adhrit, a Lambert HOSA Ambassador, has earned state-level placements in Medical Terminology, gained early clinical experience through the Youth-Med physician shadowing program, and leads a team for Leadership Initiatives that raised funds to support healthcare access in Nigeria. He is also an active Quizbowl participant who has competed at the national level multiple times. Vedant, a national and state champion in Video Game Design, is skilled in Python, web design, and game development, and completed leadership training through the Georgia FBLA Summer Leadership & Officer Training Summit. They collaborated on a project about how mycelium-based scaffolds can aid rehabilitation in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, combining technological and biological skills to simulate its effects.
Best Abstract Award 2025
Smyan Reddy
Smyan Reddy is a 9th-grade student at Lambert High School with a 4.3 GPA, exceptional standardized test scores (ACT: 35/36, PSAT: 1480/1520), and a strong passion for artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and public health. He serves as the President of Concerto, a nonprofit dedicated to combating senior isolation through music, and as the Director of Research Quality at NSRI, an organization that mentors over 7,600 student researchers. Smyan has established partnerships with more than 18 organizations, including the NFL Alumni, and is a Lead Researcher with MIT Critical Data. Fluent in four languages, he has conducted advanced research in molecular virology and synthetic biology, including designing an siRNA therapeutic targeting the Sindbis virus and contributing to the STAPH-ARM biofilm detection system for iGEM. Recognized for both leadership and scientific excellence, Smyan has earned distinctions such as 3rd place at the Georgia State HOSA Bowl. Beyond academics and research, he remains deeply engaged in community service and the arts, with over seven years of experience in Carnatic violin.
.png)
Best Abstract Award 2025
Sahasra Reddy
Sahasra Reddy is an 11th-grade student at Head-Royce School in Oakland, California, driven by a deep interest in neuroscience and the human impact of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. She has conducted independent research on early Alzheimer’s detection, investigating antibodies targeting tau protein and their potential diagnostic relevance. Her work earned her fourth place at the Alameda County Science Fair.
Beyond her research, Sahasra is the founder and co-leader of the Dementia Initiative at Head-Royce School, where she leads student volunteers in building meaningful relationships with residents at dementia care facilities, fostering both empathy and community engagement.
In addition, she serves as the Assistant Marketing Director for the Golden State Obesity Society, contributing to public health outreach and education efforts. Through her combined work in research, leadership, and service, Sahasra aims to advance understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and improve the quality of care for affected individuals and their families.
Best Abstract Award 2026
Arnav Agrawal
Arnav is an 11th-grade student at UWCSEA Singapore with a strong interest in economics and its intersection with financial technology. His research has been accepted for publication in Theoretical and Practical Research in Economic Fields (Scopus Q3), and his work is forthcoming as an official policy brief at the European Money and Finance Forum (SUERF), where he is the first high school student to achieve this distinction.
He is also an incoming Research Associate at the Central Bank of the Philippines, where he will contribute to a conference paper on the future of FinTech in the country. In addition, Arnav is the youngest-ever fellow selected for Citizens for Public Leadership, a highly selective public policy program in India that admits only 25 participants annually.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Arnav is passionate about speech and debate and is currently developing GAVEL, an AI-powered debate coaching platform designed to support under-resourced students and academies. Through his work, he aims to leverage technology and policy to drive inclusive and impactful innovation in the financial sector.
Best Abstract Award 2026
Vihaan Kinra
Vihaan Kinra is a student at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, where he maintains a 4.0 GPA while pursuing interdisciplinary research at the intersection of environmental health and medicinal chemistry. His current independent study focuses on identifying plant-derived alpha-glucosidase inhibitors as safer and more effective therapeutic options for diabetes management. Vihaan has also gained research experience through an internship at Stanford Medical School, where he contributed to projects exploring innovative strategies for the in utero prevention of congenital heart disease, with a focus on early detection and fetal intervention. Beyond his own research, he serves as a scientific editor for the Broad Street Scientific Journal, where he helps authors strengthen experimental analysis and enhance scientific communication.
His achievements include earning 1st Place at the HOSA State Leadership Conference and being recognized as a Genius Olympiad Grand Award Finalist. Driven by a commitment to innovation and impact, Vihaan aspires to advance scientific research that promotes equitable and accessible global healthcare outcomes.
Best Abstract Award 2026
Clayton Wangsanata
Clayton Wangsanata is a 9th-grade student at Lambert High School in Suwanee, Georgia, with a strong academic focus on economics, finance, and entrepreneurship. He is an active researcher at Synthica, where he specializes in econometrics and socioeconomics, and is also affiliated with the National Student Research Institution.
His published work includes The Algorithmic Consensus Hypothesis, which explores systemic risk in AI-driven financial markets, and The Architecture of Captured Democracy, which examines wealth concentration and institutional decline—both published in 2026. Clayton is also the founder of two ventures: Xantha, a full-stack college admissions platform, and Black Box Decisions, a decision-intelligence framework grounded in behavioral economics.
In addition, he developed Terminus, a Monte Carlo-based options pricing model, and has been actively managing personal investments since the age of 10. Clayton is an FBLA State Competitor and winner, a speaker at the Global Health Workshop Series 2026, and has earned finance certifications from leading institutions, including Citi, Goldman Sachs, Bank of America, and BCG.
Best Research Award 2026
Filemon Richard Mbando
Filemon Richard Mbando is a student from Tanzania with a strong focus on artificial intelligence, sustainable agriculture, and youth-led innovation. He is currently studying Economics and Mathematics while independently building a foundation in Computer Science through self-directed learning and project-based development.
He is the founder of Agrinova, a research-driven initiative that leverages AI and data-informed approaches to improve soil health, optimize land use, and support small-scale farmers with practical, scalable agricultural solutions. Over the past six months, Filemon has led research efforts, conducted field trials, and continuously refined Agrinova to ensure meaningful and measurable real-world impact. His work is centered on bridging the gap between emerging technologies and community needs, with a particular emphasis on developing accessible tools for underserved environments. Driven by a vision for sustainable development, Filemon aims to create innovative solutions that empower local communities and transform agriculture through technology.
Best Abstract Award 2026
Aariv Bhalla
Aariv Bhalla is a freshman at Fairmont Preparatory Academy in California with a deep passion for leveraging technology to transform healthcare. He is currently conducting research on the early detection of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) using gut microbiome data and machine learning, aiming to develop more accurate and non-invasive diagnostic approaches. Previously, Aariv conducted research in glioblastoma, earning first place at multiple science fairs along with special recognition from leading medical organizations. Beyond his independent research, Aariv has gained practical experience through internships at AI startups and by collaborating with university professors on research publications, further strengthening his foundation in computational medicine. He is also an active member of his school’s Associated Student Body (ASB) and a highly accomplished Public Forum debater, having achieved a national ranking as the #1 novice team in the country. Aariv enjoys golfing and exploring topics in finance and the stock market. As he continues his high school journey, he is driven to push the boundaries of AI-driven medicine and make meaningful contributions to the future of healthcare.
Fall 2025 IJSI Winners
Best Abstract Award 2025
Onyekachukwu Ndika
Onyekachukwu Ndika is a 15-year-old sophomore from Long Island, New York, with a deep passion for science and medicine and aspirations to pursue a career in the field. She actively participates in Science Research, focusing on developing cost-effective solutions to global challenges. Beyond academics, Onyekachukwu is highly engaged in leadership and service within his school and community. She is currently serves as sophomore class president and secretary of the student council, while also holding the position of treasurer of the Healthcare Career Club. In addition, she is a student leader on his school’s Student Equity Team. This past year, Onyekachukwu participated in the New York Junior Academy of Sciences, where she collaborated with international peers to design a biosensor-integrated green roof for predicting and monitoring air quality. She is also a representative of the Columbia University State Pre-College Enrichment Program, where she learns advanced science concepts from graduate students and professors. Through these experiences, Onyekachukwu demonstrates his dedication to scientific inquiry, leadership, and making meaningful contributions to his community and beyond.
Best Abstract Award 2025
Curtis Cecelia, Sia Handa, Alexa Dengler, and Sky Davis
The student research team from Hereford High School, a rural public school in Maryland, brings together diverse backgrounds and interests to pursue high-impact studies in biochemistry. In partnership with Stevenson University, the team conducted original investigations into novel cisplatin analogs, evaluating ruthenium and iron complexes as potentially safer alternatives to traditional chemotherapy. Despite limited access to advanced research opportunities in their rural community, the students established strong collaborations with university mentors and gained hands-on experience in fluorescence-based assays, drug synthesis, and cancer biology. Beyond their own project, they launched the Scientific Pathways Initiative, designed to create opportunities for other Hereford High School students to engage in research across disciplines under the guidance of Stevenson faculty. By proving that students from underserved settings can meaningfully contribute to cutting-edge science, the team seeks to inspire the next generation of young researchers to pursue discovery and innovation.
Best Research Award 2025
Shriya Khan
Shriya, a senior at Dulles High School in Texas, is an aspiring molecular biologist with a long-term vision of becoming a neurosurgeon. Her interest in medicine and neuroscience was first inspired by the extraordinary case of Phineas Gage, which sparked her curiosity about the intricate relationship between the brain and behavior. Since then, she has been passionate about exploring the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive neurological disorders, particularly brain tumors. Through research, Shriya has been able to merge her two greatest academic interests—neuroscience and molecular biology. In addition to her academic pursuits, Shriya is a multi-talented individual with a strong appreciation for the arts. She finds joy and creative expression through dance and singing, which balance her rigorous scientific interests with a sense of rhythm, movement, and harmony. Beyond the classroom and stage, she is also an avid Formula 1 enthusiast, captivated by the precision, strategy, and innovation that the sport represents. This blend of scientific curiosity, artistic creativity, and enthusiasm for high-performance challenges reflects her well-rounded personality.
Best Abstract Award 2025
Ashwita Ramanavelan
Ashwita Ramanavelan is an 8th-grade student at Basis Plano High School with a strong passion for artificial intelligence, research, and technology-driven social impact. She is the founder and director of TECspire, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering students to explore STEM innovations, and serves as the CEO of INKspire, where she leads initiatives that promote creativity and knowledge sharing. Her notable projects include EmotionSense, an AI- and Raspberry Pi–based tool designed to support children with autism, and a Microplastic Detection Machine Learning Initiative, developed in collaboration with STEAM Talks, to protect marine ecosystems. Selected for the Global Youth Program 2025, Ashwita aspires to harness the potential of AI to advance environmental sustainability, healthcare innovation, and inclusive education. Through her leadership and initiatives, she aims to inspire young minds to embrace technology as a force for meaningful social good.
Spring 2025 IJSI Winners
.png)
Best Research Award 2025
Aswanth Sulochanan Nair
Aswanth Sulochanan Nair is a high school senior at Lambert High School in Georgia, with an anticipated graduation year of 2026. Originally from India and having spent much of his early life in Connecticut, Aswanth brings a diverse cultural background and a strong academic foundation to his research pursuits. His areas of interest lie in medicine and drug discovery, with a long-term goal of pursuing a career in healthcare, particularly in neuroscience and surgery. In addition to his academic excellence in language arts, mathematics, and biology, he is bilingual—fluent in English and conversational in French and Malayalam. Outside the classroom, Aswanth enjoys playing tennis, reading, and pet sitting.
Best Research Award 2025
Srihari Suraj
Srihari Suraj is a high school junior at Pine Lake Preparatory in Mooresville, NC, with a strong interest in computational biology and biotechnology. He is passionate about using science to solve real-world medical challenges, with a particular focus on personalized medicine and cancer therapy. Srihari is actively involved in DECA, HOSA, the FIRST Robotics Competition, and several honor societies. He also volunteers at Novant Health, contributing to departments such as ICU, emergency, and cardiac care. Srihari plans to pursue a degree in biomedical engineering or biotechnology and is committed to developing innovative solutions in healthcare and medical technology.
Best Abstract Award 2025
Janani Sankar
Janani Sankar is a 10th-grade student at Little Rock Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, with a strong passion for scientific research. Her work focuses on the efficacy of natural food compounds for their anti-aging properties, specifically investigating the nanoemulsion of gamma-oryzanol—and its potential anti-aging effects in cellular models. Her innovative research has earned multiple accolades, including 2nd place at the Central Arkansas Science and Engineering Fair (CARSEF 2025) and 3rd place at the Arkansas Regional Science and Engineering Fair (ARSEF 2025). She also received a special award from the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts–Talent Identification Program (ASMSA-TIP). In addition to her scientific achievements, Janani earned 1st place in the Academic French Competition in Arkansas and placed 7th nationally at the 2025 National Beta Convention.
AIM
The International Journal of Science and Innovation (IJSI) is dedicated exclusively to middle school and high school students, providing a specialized platform for publishing original scientific research and review articles. The journal is designed to highlight and elevate young innovators by offering a space tailored specifically to pre-college researchers, ensuring their work is recognized on its own merit without comparison to undergraduate or professional-level submissions. IJSI is committed to promoting high-quality, impactful research among young scholars, and many of its contributors have gone on to become winners and finalists in prestigious competitions such as the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, Regeneron Science Talent Search, Junior Science and Humanities Symposium, and the Conrad Challenge. By focusing exclusively on middle and high school researchers, the journal provides a dedicated and inspiring platform that fosters innovation, scientific curiosity, and early leadership in research.
Focus and Scope
The International Journal of Science and Innovation (IJSI) aims to promote high-quality research by providing a dedicated platform for students and early-career researchers to publish original scientific work and review articles. The journal fosters innovation and knowledge dissemination across all major disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).