WKU News

Gatton Academy senior Jiwoo Kim (Model Laboratory School) earned Third Award and a cash prize at the renowned Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in the cellular and molecular biology category. ISEF is the world’s largest precollege science and engineering competition featuring more than 1,700 finalists and awarding more than $7 million in awards. Kim competed with young scientists from more than 64 countries, regions, and territories.

Kim was recognized for her research: “The Effects of Isoflurane on Crayfish Synaptic Transmission.” Kim is mentored by University of Kentucky faculty Dr. Robin Cooper in the Department of Biology.

“Dr. Robin Cooper at University of Kentucky has mentored me for both research and science fair for four years now,” Kim said of her mentor. “He took me into his lab when I knew absolutely nothing about either…. His work ethic and enthusiasm for science was what drew my interest in science in the first place.”

Kim went on to share the skills she developed in preparing for and participating at ISEF, “Aside from obvious technical research skills and communication, I think the most important thing was learning how the tell a story with science.” Students at Gatton are encouraged to pursue research during the two years in the program.

Kim is one of five Kentucky students to earn grand awards at ISEF this year.

“Congratulations to the winners of this year’s Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair,” said Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of Society for Science and Executive Publisher of Science News, in a public statement issued by the organization. “These students never fail to inspire me. They come from different backgrounds, different disciplines, and different corners of the world, and they are taking on some of our most urgent challenges with rigor, imagination, and determination. At a moment when bold thinking is needed most, they are proof of what’s possible. I couldn’t be more optimistic about the future.”

About The Gatton Academy: Established in 2007, The Gatton Academy is Kentucky’s first residential two-year program for gifted and talented juniors and seniors. The Gatton Academy’s students enroll as juniors and are full-time WKU students pursuing their interests in advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The Gatton Academy is a recipient of the 2022 Inspiring Programs in STEM Award from Insight Into Diversity Magazine and the Innovation Partnership Award from the National Consortium for Secondary STEM Schools.

About The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair: Established in 1950, Regeneron ISEF, a program of Society for Science, is the world’s largest global STEM competition for high school students. Through a global network of local, regional, and national science fairs, millions of students are encouraged to explore their passion for scientific inquiry. Top winners earn the right to compete at Regeneron ISEF where more than 1,700 finalists are judged across 22 different categories, competing for more than $7 million in awards and scholarships.