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A Glimpse into the Future: The 75th Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair

On May 16, 2025, the remarkable achievements of young scientists were celebrated at the 75th Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), a premier platform that showcases the innovative talent of high school students from around the globe. Organized by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and the Society for Science, the event highlighted the extraordinary contributions of nearly 1,700 young scientists representing 48 U.S. states and over 60 countries and territories.

A Prestigious Award for Groundbreaking Research

At this year’s fair, first place was awarded to Adam Kovalčík, a 19-year-old from Dulovce, Slovakia, who received the prestigious $100,000 George D. Yancopoulos Innovator Award. Kovalčík developed a revolutionary approach to producing an investigative antiviral drug named galidesivir. Through his work, he has significantly reduced the manufacturing steps and costs associated with creating the medication, making it more accessible for potential users. His goal is to improve the treatment options available for viral infections, which makes his achievement particularly remarkable in the healthcare arena.

Other Notable Winners

In addition to Kovalčík, several other young innovators received notable awards:

• - Benjamin Davis, 16 from Wrentham, Massachusetts, created a unique desktop plastic recycling system capable of transforming 3D printer waste into usable filaments, earning him the $75,000 Regeneron Young Scientist Award.
• - Siyaa Poddar, 16, from Chandler, Arizona, earned the same award for designing a low-cost device capable of detecting hazardous silica and uranium dust in the air, highlighting the public health challenges faced in the southwest U.S.
• - Samuel Skotnikov, 17, along with teammates Chanyoung Kim and Eeshaan Prashanth from Flower Mound, Texas, developed Neuroflex, a brain-controlled bionic prosthetic leg which scored exceptionally high in accuracy during testing.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of the Society for Science, commended the awardees, stating, "I am deeply inspired by the creative, passionate, and dedicated finalists who have come together in the pursuit of scientific excellence. Kovalčík's research has the potential to revolutionize global health with its innovative approach towards antiviral treatments."

A Legacy of Innovation

The Regeneron ISEF has been a stalwart of global science and engineering competitions for 75 years. It represents a celebrated tradition that encourages young scientists to push the boundaries of innovation. This year's event involved a record distribution of over $9 million in awards intended to support student creativity, innovation, and rigorous scientific inquiry. The awards were presented at two ceremonies, enhancing the recognition for the winners and their impactful research.

Conclusion

As Regeneron ISEF commences its next chapter, educators and industry leaders hope to inspire future generations to engage deeper with STEM fields. Aiming to cultivate innovative thinkers equipped to address real-world challenges, the event reiterates Regeneron's commitment to promoting STEM education amongst youth worldwide. With successes amassed by participants like Kovalčík and his peers, we can expect a brighter, more scientifically advanced future.

For more detailed information about the finalists and their work, visit the Society for Science's media kit and the full list of award-winning projects online.