FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Indiana Students Recognized at 2026 Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair

Science Education Foundation of Indiana (SEFI)

Indianapolis, IN — The Science Education Foundation of Indiana proudly celebrates three outstanding Hoosier students who earned national recognition at the 2026 Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF), the world’s largest global pre‑college STEM competition. Their achievements highlight Indiana’s growing strength in scientific research, innovation, and student‑driven discovery.

This year’s competition from May 9 to May 15 brought together more than 1,800 finalists from around the world in Phoenix, Arizona. Indiana’s representatives stood out with exceptional projects that earned top honors in their categories.

Indiana’s 2026 Regeneron ISEF Award Winners

Feiqi (Carl) Chen — Culver Academies, Culver, IN

Second Award — Biomedical Engineering
Project: A Dual‑Field Inertial–Acoustic Microfluidic Chip for Label‑Free Circulating Tumor Cell (CTC) Isolation
Carl’s innovative microfluidic device offers a promising new approach for isolating circulating tumor cells without chemical labels — a potential breakthrough for early cancer detection and personalized medicine.

Beren Uluc — Signature School, Evansville, IN

Fourth Award — Behavioral & Social Sciences
Project: The Impact of Auditory Smartphone Notifications on Cognitive Load and Typing Performance in Adolescents
Beren’s research provides new insights into how everyday smartphone alerts affect attention and performance, contributing to a growing field focused on digital well‑being.

Leif Speer — Terre Haute South Vigo High School, Terre Haute, IN

Fourth Award —Earth and Environmental Sciences

Project:  An Ensemble Precipitation Prediction Model for Sub-Saharan Africa Using a Dendrochronological Reconstruction and Satellite Data. Leif’s research involves creating a precipitation prediction model for the Sub-Saharan Region base on tree core samples in the region of Zambia. 

Celebrating Indiana’s STEM Excellence

“These students represent the very best of Indiana’s scientific talent,” said the Science Education Foundation of Indiana. “Their curiosity, creativity, and dedication reflect the mission we champion every day — empowering young people to explore, question, and innovate.”

SEFI congratulates Carl and Beren for their outstanding achievements and extends heartfelt appreciation to the educators, mentors, and regional fair partners who supported their journey to the international stage. SEFI also celebrates every Hoosier Science and Engineering Fair winner whose hard work and passion for discovery earned them a place among Indiana’s top young scientists.

About SEFI

The Science Education Foundation of Indiana supports STEM learning statewide through programs including the Hoosier Science & Engineering Fair, Celebrate Science Indiana, and regional fair partnerships. SEFI is committed to fostering scientific literacy, hands‑on learning, and opportunities for Indiana students to shine on national and global platforms.