John Overton High School Student Honored with Humane Science Award for Innovative Cancer Research

Parker Nunnery Wins Humane Science Award

In a significant achievement at the 2026 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), Parker Nunnery, a graduating student from John Overton High School, was honored with the Humane Science Award by the National Anti-Vivisection Society (NAVS). This award, which includes a $3,000 prize, is awarded to young scientists who present revolutionary research that advances scientific knowledge while prioritizing humane methods that do not involve animal testing. Nunnery's project, titled "Regulation of the PPARγ Pathway in Lung Cancer," showcased her innovative approach towards studying cancer therapies without using animal models.

Nunnery's research utilized both traditional cell cultures and cutting-edge three-dimensional human cell-based models to explore lung cancer treatment options. By investigating therapeutic compounds in human-derived models, she has made strides in understanding lung cancer and developing potential treatments that are ethical and humane. Her interest in cancer research blossomed during her time in the Interdisciplinary Science and Research (ISR) program at her high school, where she was particularly inspired by her teacher's diagnosis of throat cancer. This personal connection deepened her commitment to creating patient-focused solutions.

"Winning the NAVS Humane Science Award is incredibly exciting. Working with mentors like Dr. Greg Smith and Dr. Nicolas Means in the ISR program, alongside Dr. Amanda Linkous during my internship at Vanderbilt University, has been a tremendous experience," Parker expressed. Her project not only aligns with the mission of NAVS to promote scientific advances through non-animal research methods but also epitomizes the potential that young researchers possess in shaping a more ethical future in science. Her innovative work has positioned her as a trailblazer in cancer research and has the potential to inspire further developments in the field.

Parker's initiative embodies the essential ethos of the NAVS Humane Science Award. According to Dr. Lauren Stein, NAVS Director of Science and Research Programs, "Parker's project underscores the vital role young researchers have in crafting a future of science that is both innovative and ethical. She is truly a young scientist to watch."

In addition to Nunnery, four other promising students were recognized during the fair for their projects, representing a diverse array of countries including students from Florida, Canada, and South Korea. They competed among a total of over 1,700 high school students from more than 60 countries, presenting more than 1,300 projects at this prestigious event and vying for over $7 million in awards, scholarships, and internships. This competition is recognized as the world's largest pre-college science competition.

The NAVS, established in 1929, is dedicated to ending the exploitation of animals in scientific research and education. It promotes alternatives to animal testing and supports innovative non-animal research methodologies. This year marks the continued partnership of NAVS with ISEF, celebrating excellence in student projects that integrate scientific rigor with humane research practices, a tradition they have upheld since 2002.

Looking ahead, Parker plans to continue her studiesalongside further research on organoids, aging, and cancerat Vanderbilt University this fall. Her endeavors in integrating humane methods into scientific research demonstrate an undeniable potential to contribute significantly to the fields of healthcare and oncology. As the future of science continues evolving, bright young minds like Parker Nunnery pave the way for a more compassionate and innovative approach to understanding human diseases and developing cures.

To learn more about NAVS and its mission, visit navs.org. For a complete list of recipients of the Regeneron ISEF 2026 Special Awards, check out societyforscience.org.