Key Takeaways:
- Sirish Subash, a 9th grader from Georgia, won the 2024 3M Young Scientist Challenge with his AI-based pesticide detector, Pestiscand.
- The competition featured ten finalists, each paired with a 3M scientist mentor to refine their projects.
- Sirish’s device, designed to detect pesticide residues on produce, demonstrated an accuracy rate of over 85%.
- The 3M Young Scientist Challenge, now in its 17th year, encourages middle school students to develop STEM-based solutions for real-world issues.
Winner Unveiled at 3M Headquarters
3M and Discovery Education have named Sirish Subash, a 9th-grade student from Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology in Snellville, Georgia, as the winner of the 2024 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Sirish’s winning project, Pestiscand, is an AI-based handheld device designed to detect pesticide residues on produce with a high degree of accuracy, using spectrophotometry to measure light reflection across different wavelengths.
Innovative Solution for Pesticide Detection
Pestiscand employs a non-destructive approach to pesticide detection, measuring light reflection on the surface of produce to identify residues. Equipped with a sensor, display screen, processor, and power supply, the device detected pesticide residues on spinach and tomatoes with an accuracy rate exceeding 85%, achieving its goals for efficiency and precision. This innovative project earned Sirish a $25,000 prize and the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist.”
Support for Young Innovators
Sirish’s achievement comes after four months of competition, where he and nine other finalists participated in challenges held at 3M’s headquarters in St. Paul, Minnesota. Finalists were evaluated on creativity, STEM application, research, presentation skills, and their ability to inspire others. Each finalist was paired with a 3M scientist mentor to help transform their concept into a prototype.
Torie Clarke, EVP & chief public affairs officer at 3M, praised the finalists, noting, “This year’s Young Scientist Challenge finalists have demonstrated an incredible ability to develop creative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.”
Other Recognized Projects
Alongside Sirish’s first-place win, Minula Weerasekera from Beaverton, Oregon, earned second place with an energy storage project using organic compounds, and William Tan from Scarsdale, New York, secured third place with an AI Smart Artificial Reef aimed at promoting marine life growth. Both students received a $2,000 prize, with additional awards for the remaining finalists.
A Legacy of STEM Engagement
The 3M Young Scientist Challenge, now in its 17th year, encourages middle school students to find creative, STEM-based solutions to complex problems. Many former winners have pursued science and technology careers, receiving recognition in various media outlets. Discovery Education’s Amy Nakamoto highlighted the importance of supporting young innovators, stating, “It is more important than ever that future generations are given the tools needed to tackle real-world problems.”
