Helen Peng and Hamilton Wan, current juniors at the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science recently competed in the Region V Mississippi Science and Engineering Fair at Mississippi State University. Mr. Wan’s project was entitled, “Development of an Influenza A Biosensor with Sialic Acid-bound Gold Nanoparticles,” and focused on the creation of a biosensor to aid in flu detection. He won Best of Show and will represent MSMS at the Intel International Science Fair in Pittsburg, PA May 13-19. Additionally, Mr. Wan received the Ricoh Development Award and the Genius Olympiad Award for his novel research project.
Ms. Peng’s research project was entitled, “Optimal Photo-Reactors for the Improvement of Solar Water Disinfection with the Advanced Oxidation Process,” and focused on the addition of Trombe-Meinel Cusp photo-reflector to enhance the efficiency of solar water disinfection. Ms. Peng was awarded 2nd Alternate for Best of Show and also received the Stockholm Water Award.
Both Ms. Peng and Mr. Wan will compete in the State Level Science and Engineering Fair at Jackson State University on April 5, 2018.