Innovative Student from Lawton Chiles High School Receives Prestigious Humane Science Award

Innovative Student Recognized for Humane Science

Shaoxuan (Lily) Ma, a dedicated senior at Lawton Chiles High School in Tallahassee, Florida, has earned the esteemed Humane Science Award from the National Anti-Vivisection Society (NAVS). This recognition comes as a result of her outstanding project presented at the 2026 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), where only five students received such an honor. Ma's research, which showcases the potential for humane, non-animal testing methods, is a significant advancement for scientific integrity and medical ethics.

In her project titled "Human Stem Cell Derived Extracellular Vesicles for the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Disease," Ma devised an innovative approach that utilized human-derived organoids — essentially miniature organs constructed from human cells — to study potential treatments for dementia-related conditions. Instead of relying on animal models, her research focused on extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are tiny particles released by cells that could hold the key to mitigating the effects of diseases like Alzheimer's.

Ma's findings indicate that EVs may help reduce biological markers associated with Alzheimer's, inflammation, and cellular stress, reinforcing her belief that animal-free research can lead to meaningful advancements in medical treatments. She expressed her commitment to ethical research, stating, "Almost everyone has a personal connection to Alzheimer's, so there's a tremendous amount of work to be done. Connecting my passion for science with my ethical values was essential to me."

Her journey into the world of scientific research began in eighth grade when she started working in Dr. Yan Li's laboratory at the Florida State University-FAMU College of Engineering. This experience not only honed her technical skills but also inspired her to explore humane, human-centric research methodologies. Dr. Lauren Stein, the NAVS director of science and research programs, praised Ma’s work, declaring, "Lily's study opens the door to innovative treatments that could be effective for diseases that impact countless families worldwide."

The ISEF competition is known for attracting top-tier young scientists from across the globe. It includes over 1,700 high school students from more than 60 countries competing for a staggering $7 million in awards, scholarships, and internships. NAVS has been a proud supporter since 2002, promoting projects that align scientific inquiry with ethical standards, particularly those that do not involve animal testing.

The event highlights not only the ingenuity of young minds but also the importance of ethical considerations in scientific research. Alongside Ma, other recipients included students from Canada and South Korea, reflecting a diverse pool of talent and innovative thought from around the world.

Looking ahead, Ma has ambitions that extend beyond just scientific discovery. She aims to merge her interests in science and law to create a future where new innovations are developed responsibly and are accessible to everyone, addressing both the need for progress and moral accountability in science.

For more insights into Ma's groundbreaking work and the National Anti-Vivisection Society's mission, visit NAVS.