John Capodilupo – Catholic Central High School, Grand Rapids, MI

Project: Analyzing the Clustering of Point Sources in the 74 MHz VLSS Survey

Ever since reading Stephen Hawkings’ A Brief History of Time, John, 18, has wanted to unravel the cosmos and understand how the universe “works.” In this research, he computes a quantitative clustering of galaxies in a frequency relevant to the 21 centimeter radiation from neutral hydrogen from the dark ages of the universe. The application of his research will be realized when future scientists create computer simulations of the foreground sky, providing a more accurate understanding of the world we live in. He loves weightlifting and plays intramural basketball.

Raman Nelakanti – Lynbrook High School, San Jose, CA

Project: Inducing Anaerobic Conditions Using Sulfur Deprivation for Hydrogen Production in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Raman, 17, studied the proper sulfur environment that is ideal for algae to produce hydrogen gas while maintaining normal growth. Hydrogen, a widely recognized clean energy source, is difficult to produce efficiently. However, algae possess enzymes that produce hydrogen gas under certain conditions. This research highlights a way to efficiently produce hydrogen through biological processes, paving the way for hydrogen as a viable alternative energy source and a plausible alternative to fossil fuels. Raman is also an avid cricket player and participated in Indian Carnatic vocal music.

Sunanda Sharma – Shrewsbury High School, Shrewsbury, MA

Project: Modification of Developing and Mature Brain Circuits in an Autism Model

Through Sensory and Social Enrichment Sunanda, 17, researched perceptual deficits of children with autism and concluded that in order to study the underlying causes of disorders in the brain, scientists must also understand the interaction between genetics and the environment. Sunanda’s project was the first study to show behavioral and social rescue of disorders caused by a gene at the earliest stage of development. Sunanda likes playing/composing on the piano, clarinet, and the guitar. She also enjoys playing football and soccer and debating.

Tags: Intel Science Talent Search, Intel Science Talent Search Finalists, John Capodilupo, Raman Nelakanti, Sunanda Sharma

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