On Wednesday, January 21, the Society for Science (the Society) and Regeneron announced the top 40 finalists in the Regeneron Science Talent Search 2026, America’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors. Although none of the four River Town students advanced to the final 40, two Westchester County students did advance:
- Jashvi Desai: Yorktown High School
- Khushi Karthikeyan, Ardsley High School
The Regeneron Science Talent Search 2026 finalists represent 35 schools across 15 states. They are competing for more than $1.8 million, with a top prize of $250,000 to further their scientific education. The 40 finalists were chosen from 300 top scholars, and more than 2,600 total entrants were selected based on the originality and creativity of their scientific research, as well as their achievement and leadership both inside and outside the classroom. Finalists will participate in a week-long competition from March 5-11, engaging in a rigorous judging process and competing for awards that recognize their excellence and can be used toward their education. They will also have an opportunity to interact with leading scientists and share research with the public on March 8. The top 10 Regeneron Science Talent Search 2026 winners will be announced during an awards ceremony on March 10, streamed live from Washington D.C.
For a complete list of this year’s finalists, click HERE.
In its 85th year, the competition continues to spotlight exceptional young scientists whose technical excellence and leadership drive meaningful impact. Its alumni include 13 Nobel laureates, 23 MacArthur Fellows, eight Breakthrough Prize winners, and founders of influential science-driven companies such as Regeneron.
“My own scientific journey can be traced back to my experience with the Science Talent Search, which profoundly shaped who I am today. Participating in and becoming a winner of STS gave me the confidence to dedicate my life to science and the pursuit of inventing medicines that improve people’s lives,” said George D. Yancopoulos, M.D., Ph.D., co-Founder, co-Chairman, President, and Chief Scientific Officer at Regeneron, and a 1976 STS Winner. “Today, Regeneron helps millions of people around the world facing serious diseases, which is a testament to what is possible when young scientific talent is nurtured. I see that same potential to transform our world in these finalists, and I eagerly await their future contributions to science and humanity.”
Finalist research projects cover 16 categories, from Computer Science to Environmental Science. Other finalists chose to focus on Behavioral Sciences.
“We are immensely proud to celebrate this extraordinary class of Regeneron Science Talent Search finalists and their remarkable achievements,” said Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of Society for Science and Executive Publisher of Science News. “As they build on a powerful 85-year legacy of scientific innovation, they are propelled by the strength and support of a dynamic scientific community.”
What’s Next: Important Dates for 2026
- Regeneron STS Finalists Week: March 5-11
- Public Exhibition of Projects: March 8
- Winners Announced at Awards Ceremony: March 10
