Staff Report
Collierville High School senior Michael Chen has been named a Top 300 Scholar in the Regeneron Science Talent Search 2023, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors. Chen’s achievement is a remarkable feat, considering the competition receives thousands of applications from across the country every year.
The Regeneron Science Talent Search, owned and produced by the Society for Science, is a renowned platform that recognizes and empowers our nation’s most promising young scientists. The competition provides students with an opportunity to showcase their innovative solutions to solve significant global challenges through rigorous research and discoveries. Regeneron has sponsored the Science Talent Search since 2017, as part of its deep commitment to STEM education and to supporting young scientists.
Chen is the first Collierville High School student to be named a Top 300 Scholar, and his achievement has brought great pride and honor to the school. The Regeneron Science Talent Search alumni have an impressive record, with 13 Nobel Prizes, 11 National Medals of Science, six Breakthrough Prizes, 22 MacArthur Foundation Fellowships, and two Fields Medals to their name.
Chen’s research, which was recognized by the Regeneron
Science Talent Search, is an independent work that he accomplished without any
assistance from a mentor or guidance. The competition does not allow team research among high school students, and while mentors are allowed, many students who are nominated have someone to guide them in their research. Chen’s achievement, therefore, is even more impressive, given that he worked alone, and his research was entirely his own.
In response to a question posed to him about what this honor means to him, Chen said, “The Regeneron STS is widely known as the most prestigious research-based competition for high school students. STS alumni have gone on to win thirteen Nobel Prizes and eleven National Medals of Science. The STS is symbolic of a stepping-stone in my life’s journey as a research scientist. The competition identifies the top high school student researchers nationwide without state quotas, but more importantly, I was one of very few students who did not have a mentor or any assistance for my research. The work that I have done is mine only, and that’s what makes me most proud.”
Chen’s achievement is a testament to his exceptional talent, dedication, and hard work. He has set an inspiring example for his peers and younger students at Collierville High School. The Regeneron Science Talent Search has provided Chen with a national stage to present new ideas and challenge conventional ways of thinking. His success will undoubtedly motivate other students at Collierville High School to pursue their passion for science and strive for excellence.
The Society for Science has played a significant role in educating the public about scientific discoveries, as well as identifying future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and math. The Regeneron Science Talent Search is a critical program that recognizes and supports the most promising young scientists in our nation. Chen’s achievement is a proud moment for Collierville High School, the state of Tennessee, and the entire nation. We wish Chen all the best as he continues his journey as a research scientist and a leader in the field of science.
