Regeneron ISEF 2025: Columbus Ohio

This May, I concluded my second and final year participating in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) — the world’s largest pre-college science competition, with over 1,600 finalists from around the globe.

At ISEF 2025 in Columbus, Ohio, I was honored to receive:

• A Grand Award in Environmental Engineering (ENEV)

• The Fondazione Bruno Kessler (FBK) Special Award

In addition to a selection to the Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Impact Panel, a distinction given to just 6 finalists.

My project focused on developing a novel contact liquid for cryogenic carbon capture—an approach aimed at reducing emissions from heavy industries more efficiently and sustainably.

This journey began last year with a project in materials science. Over these two years, I’ve been fortunate to receive:

• Two Grand Awards

• Three Special Awards

  
  

None of this would have been possible without the mentorship of the Cryogenic Carbon Capture Team at KAUST, led by Prof. William Roberts, and the support from Mawhiba, especially Eng. Abdullah Alkhatteb and Prof. Ahmad Sorour.

ISEF has been more than a competition. It’s been a place for scientific growth, global connection, and a reminder of what young researchers can achieve with the right support.

Thanks to everyone who has been part of this chapter!