WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Achyuta Rajaram ’24 emerged victorious in the 83rd Regeneron Science Talent Search, claiming the top prize of $250,000. The competition, held in Washington, D.C., showcased Rajaram’s innovative project, which focuses on developing an automatic method to identify the decision-making processes within computer models.
Rajaram’s project aims to enhance the understanding of algorithmic decision-making, ultimately leading to more effective, safe, and equitable outcomes. Hailing from Hopedale, Massachusetts, Rajaram stood out among 300 scholars and 2,162 entrants, earning the prestigious title in the nation’s oldest STEM competition.
Fellow Exonians also made their mark in the competition, with Alan Bu ’24, from Glenmont, New York, securing 10th place and a prize of $40,000. Bu’s project delved into math, providing precise limits on the number of spanning trees in a planar graph.
Additionally, Riya Tyagi ’24, representing Short Hills, New Jersey, earned a place among the top 40 finalists, receiving $25,000 for her endeavor. Tyagi’s project explored the use of computer vision to analyze how AI determines patients’ race and ethnicity, aiming to enhance the ethical implications of AI-powered healthcare software.
The Regeneron Science Talent Search, sponsored by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and the Society for Science, celebrated its largest applicant pool since the 1960s. This year’s competition saw finalists from 36 schools across 19 states, engaging in rigorous scientific discussions, meeting with experts, and exploring notable landmarks in the capital.
Rajaram, Bu, and Tyagi now join the prestigious ranks of Science Talent Search alumni, many of whom have attained international recognition, including Nobel Prize laureates and recipients of the National Medal of Science.
The competition also honored Thomas Cong, Michelle Wei, and other exceptional students for their outstanding projects, underscoring the importance of fostering innovation and scientific exploration among young scholars.
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and the Society for Science commended the winners and finalists for their dedication to scientific inquiry and commitment to addressing societal challenges. Through initiatives like the Regeneron Science Talent Search, these organizations aim to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders and promote transformative discoveries that benefit humanity.
The achievements of Rajaram, Bu, Tyagi, and their peers highlight the immense potential of young innovators in shaping the future of science and technology.
