Students win big at Intel ISEF 2010
Quantum dots, quantum computing and computing algorithm take top prizes at global high school science competition
SAN JOSE, Calif. — Quantum is so hot right now. At this year’s Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, two of the top three awards went to young scientists with projects related to the realm of weird physics.
At the conclusion of the weeklong high school science competition, projects on cancer-fighting quantum dots, quantum computer algorithms and computer programming claimed the highest honors. In all, nearly a third of the entered projects were honored during the May 14 ceremony at the 2010 Intel ISEF, a program of Society for Science & the Public. Winners received cash awards ranging from $500 to the top prize of $75,000; other prizes ranged from field trips to officially naming an asteroid for the recipient.
The annual event attracts some of the world’s best and brightest young scientists, representing more than 50 nations. The 1,611 students who attended this year also won the respect and admiration of Nobel laureates, scientific judges and the general public.