MADISON – Seventeen-year-old Sophie Guo, a senior at James Clemens High School, has qualified as one of the top 300 scholars in the Regeneron Science Talent Search.

The Regeneron Science Talent Search is among the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and mathematics competitions for high school seniors. More than 1,800 students entered the 2018 competition. Westinghouse and Intel previously sponsored the contest.

In applying for the Regeneron competition, Guo listed Carol Bohatch as the person who has been most influential in the development of her scientific career. Bohatch teaches science and chemistry at James Clemens.

“Sophie is an outstanding young lady and scholar,” Bohatch said. “She challenges herself by taking the most rigorous courses James Clemens offers. Sophie’s aptitude and desire to make a difference has led her to her current research project.”

For her research topic, Guo studied the detection of ultra-sensitive and rapid e. coli bacteria by using nanoplasmonic biosensor chips and antibody-antigen binding.

For the project, Guo independently sought a mentor, conducted the research and completed the comprehensive application to Regeneron Science Talent Search. “Her self-motivation has earned her a spot among the top high school student researchers in the United States,” Bohatch said.

“Forty finalists will be selected to attend the Regeneron Science Talent Institute from March 8-14 in Washington D.C. to compete for $1.8 million in additional awards, including the top award of $250,000,” Allie Stifel said. Stifel serves as Director of the Regeneron Science Talent Search.

Guo has compiled numerous science awards during her high school years. Last summer, she won third place with an Embedded System study at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Los Angeles. She also has served in Student Government Association.