Celebrating Excellence: Winners of Our 14th Polygence Symposium of Rising Scholars

On September 26, the 14th Polygence Symposium of Rising Scholars brought together young researchers from across the globe to share their ideas, discoveries, and hard work. From artificial intelligence and environmental science to psychology and social issues, students explored complex questions and presented research driven by their own curiosity.

What makes the Symposium special isn't just the research itself, but the students behind it. Each presentation reflects the courage to ask questions, explore unfamiliar territory, and turn an idea into something meaningful.

Among this year's talented presenters, several students distinguished themselves through their innovative thinking, rigorous research, and compelling presentations.

We're excited to introduce the award winners of our 14th Symposium of Rising Scholars and celebrate the incredible work they've accomplished!

First Place Live Talk

Winner: Nikhil Shriram

Topic: AI, Machine Learning & Data Science

Project Title: "AI Wildfire Risk Prediction in California"

Second Place Live Talk

Winner: Brandon Qu

Topic: Psychology & Education

Project Title: "Shaping the School Environment to Help Introverted Students Succeed"

Third Place Live Talk

Winner: Yusuke Shibasaki

Topic: Sociology & Public Policy

Project Title: "Structural Barriers Discouraging Qualified Sports Coaches from Working in Toyooka City and the Tajima Region, and Their Effects on Young People's Equitable Access to Sports: A Socio-Ecological Case Study"

Top Asynchronous Talk

Winner: Yuna Han

Topic: Psychology & Mental Health

Project Title: "The Bidirectional Relationship Between Social Isolation, Depression, and Cognitive Decline"

Top Elevator Pitch

Winner: Razin Rasheed

Topic: Genetics & Neuroscience

Project Title: "Differential Gene Analysis to Identify Risk Genes for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis"

Innovator Award (1)

Winner: Vicky Yu

Topic: Microbiology & Food Science

Project Title: "Different Hydrations of Sourdough Starter on the Populations of LAB and Yeast as Well as the Final Bread"

Innovator Award (2)

Winner: Emma Bolch

Topic: Media, Gender & Representation

Project Title: "Rewriting Asexual Representation: An Analysis of How Asexuality Is Portrayed in Gender, Race, and Disability with a Creative Reimagining"