Schreiber seniors Madeline Fagen and Emma Feldman have been named two of the 300 national semifinalists in the 2016 Intel Science Talent Search. Celebrating its 75th year, the Intel Search is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious pre-college science competition, with over 1,750 entrants from 512 high schools.
On Jan. 20, 40 finalists will be named. Each semifinalist receives a $1,000 award from the Intel Foundation, with an additional $1,000 going to his or her school. “Having students recognized as Intel semifinalists underscores the fine work being done by students and staff alike, and we couldn’t be prouder to be included among the finest schools in the country,” said Schreiber Principal Ira Pernick.
Fagen examined the correlation between levels of two immune-regulating proteins in brain fluid taken from patients suffering from schizophrenia, as well as the genes used in immune cells. Her research uncovered that schizophrenia may be an autoimmune disease, and that immune irregularities identified in patients can potentially serve as targets for medication.
Feldman created membranes from polystyrene, the main component in Styrofoam, and used them to filter saltwater. She demonstrated that her membranes can filter water equally, more effectively and more efficiently than filters currently sold commercially that are made from different types of plastic.
