Pine Crest Upper School science research students earn top awards while presenting original projects at the IFoRE Conference

Pine Crest, Florida – Pine Crest Upper School students in the three-year science research program recently had the opportunity to showcase their work on a national stage, presenting original research at the International Forum for Excellence in Research (IFoRE). The event brought together young scientists from across the country to share innovative findings, receive feedback from professionals, and engage with peers equally passionate about advancing scientific knowledge.

The Pine Crest contingent distinguished itself in the student research competition, with several students taking home first-place honors for their outstanding projects. Maya Peles, class of 2026, earned first place in Microbiology and Molecular Biology for her research titled “Identifications of RNAs that bind to huntingtin (HTT) and mutant huntingtin (mHtt) by APEX2 Labeling / RNA sequencing.” Her work explored complex interactions at the molecular level, contributing to a deeper understanding of Huntington’s disease mechanisms.

Victoria Chang, class of 2027, received first-place recognition in Physiology and Immunology for her project, “Syngap1 Shapes Perceptual Processing Through Motor Integration via M1S1 and Distributed Cortical Dynamics.” Chang’s research examined the neurological pathways involved in perception and motor coordination, highlighting the interplay between genetics and brain function.

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Kobi Weitzman, also class of 2027, had an extraordinary showing in Physics and Astronomy, winning both the Understanding the Universe Award in Astronomy and Space Sciences and the Student Choice Award. His project, “Vetting TESS Exoplanet Candidates and Refining Their Transit Predictions,” focused on improving the accuracy of exoplanet detection, providing valuable insights for future astronomical studies.

In addition to presenting their research during speaker and poster sessions, Pine Crest students engaged directly with professionals in their fields, gaining constructive feedback to refine their work and broaden their scientific perspectives. They also had the chance to connect with like-minded students from schools nationwide, exchanging ideas and learning from each other’s experiences.

The achievements of these students underscore the strength of Pine Crest Upper School’s science research curriculum, which emphasizes sustained investigation, critical thinking, and real-world scientific problem solving. By fostering curiosity and encouraging deep exploration, the program equips students with the skills and confidence to contribute meaningfully to the scientific community.

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“Congratulations to all!” said school officials, celebrating the students’ accomplishments. Their success at IFoRE reflects not only individual talent and dedication but also the collaborative and supportive learning environment that Pine Crest cultivates.

Through these experiences, students gain more than just awards—they develop a sense of purpose, the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, and the motivation to continue pursuing scientific discovery well beyond high school. The recognition at IFoRE is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and passion these young researchers bring to their studies.