2 Atlanta Seniors Named Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholars

ATLANTA, GA — Two Atlanta seniors were named in the top 300 scholars in Society for Science's Regeneron Science Talent Search 2021, the nation's oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors, according to a Jan. 7 press release.

Yash Kadadi, 18, of The Westminster Schools — a private school in Atlanta — and William Shi, 17, of Northview High School, were selected to be in the top 300 scholars out of 1,760 applications. Each of the scholars and their respective schools will receive $2,000 each.

Scholars were chosen based on their exceptional research skills, commitment to academics, innovative thinking and promise as scientists, the release said. The 1,760 applications spanned 611 high schools across 45 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and 10 countries.

The Regeneron Science Talent Search provides students with a national stage to present original research and celebrate the discoveries of young scientists. Research projects for the 2021 competition cover topics from bioinformatics to public health and energy efficiency, the release said.

"The remarkable drive, creativity and intellectual curiosity that each one of these scholars possesses represents a hopeful outlook for our future and our collective wellbeing," said Maya Ajmera, president and CEO of Society for Science, publisher of "Science News "and 1985 Science Talent Search alum, in the release. "At a time when many students’ educational experiences are being disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, I am incredibly humbled to see gifted young scientists and engineers eager to contribute fresh insights to solving the world’s most intractable problems."

Three other Georgia seniors were chosen in the top 300 scholars as well. Priya Soneji, Vishaal Ram and Divya Nori —all from Milton High School — were also among the scholars list.

"An exceptional group of student leaders and innovators comprise this year’s Regeneron Science Talent Search scholars, with an array of projects that demonstrate the power of science," said Hala Mirza, senior vice president of corporate communications and citizenship at Regeneron. "We are honored to celebrate the next generation of young scientists and inventors who can elevate the STEM community and our broader society through their high-quality research and novel discoveries. These are the inspiring problem solvers who will help address the current and future challenges facing our world."

On Jan. 21, 40 of the 300 scholars will be named finalists. From March 10-17, all 40 finalists will compete for more than $1.8 million in awards provided by Regeneron. The full list of scholars can be viewed on Society for Science's website.