New Zealand Student Selected for US Science Fair with Innovative Project

Seventeen-year-old Sophie Ineson has earned the opportunity to represent New Zealand at the prestigious International Science and Engineering Fair in the United States in May 2024. Her project, titled “Disrupted Digestion,” is one of only two selected by the judges of the Royal Society Te Apārangi.

Sophie’s project was chosen from a pool of seven submissions put forward by students in years 11, 12, and 13 from regional science fairs across the country. Her dedication to science and environmental issues has already garnered significant recognition. Last month, she was awarded the $50,000 Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Student Endeavour for a project focused on healing wounds in space.

Passion Meets Research

Sophie expressed her excitement about the upcoming fair, acknowledging the remarkable journey that has led her here. She stated, “It was phenomenal. I couldn’t believe that a project I completed about penguins could lead to this opportunity.” The project, which explored the impact of plastic on penguin digestion, was inspired by witnessing a sick penguin at a sanctuary several years ago. “Penguins are my favourite animal, so that really hit hard for me,” she shared, reflecting on the distress of seeing a penguin struggling due to plastic ingestion.

Her research was further motivated by a sailing trip last year in the Hauraki Gulf, where she observed the alarming amount of plastic waste in the ocean. Sophie highlighted the broader implications of her findings, noting, “I think some people may not even consider how much of an impact their plastic straw or improper waste disposal has on penguins.”

Innovative Research Findings

In her study, Sophie experimented to determine how various types of plastic affected the digestive enzymes of king penguins. She focused on two enzymes, lipase and amylase, which are accessible and safe for her to use. Her findings indicated that plastics do interfere with digestion, with the extent of disruption varying based on factors such as the size, density, and chemical composition of the plastic.

To prepare for the international science fair, Sophie will receive mentorship from a member of the Royal Society’s scientific review committee. Dame Jane Harding, president of the Royal Society Te Apārangi, praised the significance of science fairs, stating, “Science and technology fairs offer students valuable opportunities to apply scientific investigation to real-world problems, while strengthening their critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills.”

As Sophie prepares for her presentation in the United States, she embodies the spirit of innovation and environmental awareness that science fairs promote. Her work not only contributes to scientific understanding but also raises awareness about the crucial issue of plastic pollution and its impact on wildlife.