Posted on 03/14/2012 9:04:47 PM PDT by James C. Bennett
Nithin Tumma, whose research could lead to less toxic and more effective breast cancer treatments, received the top award of $100,000 at the Intel Science Talent Search 2012, a program of Society for Science & the Public.
From medical treatments to alternative energy solutions, innovation has been top of mind in our nation's capital this week. Honoring high school seniors with exceptional promise in math and science, Intel Corporation and Society for Science & the Public (SSP) recognized the winners of the nation's most elite and demanding high school research competition, the Intel Science Talent Search.
Nithin Tumma, 17, of Fort Gratiot, Mich., won the top award of $100,000 from the Intel Foundation for his research, which could lead to more direct, targeted, effective and less toxic breast cancer treatments. He analyzed the molecular mechanisms in cancer cells and found that by inhibiting certain proteins, we may be able to slow the growth of cancer cells and decrease their malignancy. Nithin is first in his class of 332, a varsity tennis player and a volunteer for the Port Huron Museum, where he started a restoration effort for historical and cultural landmarks.
Second place honors and $75,000 went to Andrey Sushko, 17, of Richland, Wash., for his development of a tiny motor, only 7 mm (almost 1/4 inch) in diameter, which uses the surface tension of water to turn its shaft.
"We invest in America's future when we recognize the innovative achievements of our nation's brightest young minds," said Intel President and CEO Paul Otellini. "Hands-on experience with math and science, such as that required of Intel Science Talent Search finalists, encourages young people to think critically, solve problems and understand the world around them."
(Excerpt) Read more at marketwatch.com ...
The first place winner is the child of Indian immigrants, the second place winner is the child of Russian immigrants and the third place winner is apparently of Chinese origin. Hopefully, some of the immigrants’ study habits will rub off on American kids - but more likely most of the immigrant kids will end up spending hours texting and playing XBox.
The message movie "Medicine Man" laments the loss of cures for cancer, which are forever gone throught destruction of the Brazilian rain forest. Yet, I can't help but think of similar losses due to the young men and women who were not allowed to be, and not simply through educational malpractice.
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