New Zealand Student Selected for Prestigious US Science Fair

Seventeen-year-old Sophie Ineson has been selected to represent New Zealand at the International Science and Engineering Fair in the United States, scheduled for May 2024. Her project, titled “Disrupted Digestion,” was one of only two chosen by judges from the Royal Society Te Apārangi after a competitive selection process involving seven innovative science projects from students in years 11, 12, and 13 across the country.

Sophie recently gained recognition for her work, winning the $50,000 Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Student Endeavour for a project focused on healing wounds in space. This achievement has further validated her scientific pursuits and underscored her commitment to addressing environmental issues through research.

Inspiration Behind the Research

Sophie’s journey into scientific inquiry began after witnessing a sick penguin at a sanctuary several years ago. Motivated by her love for penguins, she chose to study the effects of plastic on their digestion. “Seeing that poor little penguin struggle because of ingesting plastic really hit hard for me,” she reflected. Her research highlights the broader issue of plastic pollution, particularly focusing on how everyday actions, like the use of plastic straws, can have significant consequences for wildlife.

Last year, Sophie participated in a sailing trip with the Spirit of Adventure, which further fueled her concern about plastic waste in the Hauraki Gulf. “I think some people may not consider the impact their plastic waste has on animals like penguins,” she noted.

Research Findings and Future Steps

In her project, Sophie explored how various plastics interact with the digestive enzymes of king penguins. She specifically examined the effects of lipase and amylase, enzymes that play crucial roles in digestion, and identified how different variables—including the size, density, and chemical composition of plastics—affect digestive processes. Her findings indicated that plastics do interfere with digestion, raising important concerns about environmental health.

To prepare for the international fair, Sophie will be mentored by a member of the Royal Society’s scientific review committee. Dame Jane Harding, president of the Royal Society Te Apārangi, emphasized the significance of science fairs in nurturing student talent. “These events challenge and inspire students to excel, providing invaluable opportunities to apply scientific investigation to real-world problems,” she remarked.

Sophie’s selection is a testament to her dedication and the importance of youth engagement in science. As she prepares for this prestigious event, her journey serves as a reminder of the critical role young scientists play in addressing pressing global issues.