Thomas Cong of Ossining High School secured second place in the Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) 2024, a prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors. For his research on the rapid growth of certain cancers and the role of genetic information in controlling metabolism, Cong received a prize of $175,000. His study revealed significant differences in metabolism and gene expression in immune cancers, shedding light on the complexity of metabolic variations and providing valuable insights into cancer research.
Meanwhile, Christopher Zorn from Irvington, NY, nabbed sixth place and an $80,000 award for his investigation into the relationship between the RET gene and MYC genes in lung cancer. By studying genetically altered lung cancer cell lines exposed to various drugs, Zorn identified elevated MYC protein levels leading to treatment resistance, suggesting potential paths for future drug research targeting both genes.
The 83rd edition of the Regeneron Science Talent Search recognized young innovators poised to become future STEM leaders. More than $1.8 million was distributed among the finalists, selected through a rigorous evaluation process from the largest pool of entrants since the 1960s.
Excited about the winners, George D. Yancopoulos, M.D., Ph.D., co-Founder, Board co-Chair, President, and Chief Scientific Officer of Regeneron, praised the talent and potential of the finalists. Yancopoulos, a top winner in the 1976 STS, highlighted how his own experience in the competition fueled his passion for science, inspiring his journey to invent and develop new medicines. He expressed confidence that the exceptional achievements of these young finalists will lead to groundbreaking innovations benefiting humanity in the years to come.