University-sponsored team places third in international science contest

Wednesday, June 21, 2017

A trio of Charlotte high school students placed third in the world’s largest international pre-college science competition.

Sponsored by the UNC Charlotte Center for STEM Education (CSTEM), the team of Marvin Ridge High School students came in third place at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Los Angeles.

Trevor Daino, Michael Kronovet and Arpad Voros were recognized for their study proposing a new method for reducing the costs of muon scattering tomography, a passive imaging technique used for a variety of applications, such as cargo inspection and carbon sequestration.

“Participating in the competition was an incredible experience,” said Kronovet, speaking on behalf of the group. “Not only did we have the privilege of listening to brilliant speakers like Nobel laureates and previous ISEF winners, we were also able to meet young passionate scientists from all over the world.” 

David Pugalee, CSTEM director in the Cato College of Education, said, “The Charlotte region has a great pool of talent, and it is exciting to see the exceptional STEM research done by local high school students. We are committed to supporting such work through the affiliation of the UNC Charlotte Regional Science and Engineering Fair with the International Science and Engineering Fair.”

Kronovet called the competition the experience of a lifetime, one made possible through UNC Charlotte’s support. “It was such an honor to be sponsored by CSTEM. Our sponsors worked with us throughout the process and gave us crucial advice to help us get acclimated to the competitive judging atmosphere.”

Each year, approximately 1,800 high school students from more than 75 countries, regions and territories are awarded the opportunity to showcase their independent research and compete for on average $4 million in prizes at ISEF. The UNC Charlotte Center for STEM Education sponsors the winner of its regional fair to compete in the international competition.