Highlights:
- Five Indian-American students are among the top 10 finalists in the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge.
- Their projects focus on pollution, food safety, climate change, road safety, and water conservation.
- The finalists will receive mentorship from 3M scientists before the final competition.
- The championship event will take place on October 12 and 13 in St. Paul, Minnesota.
- The winner will receive a $25,000 prize and the title of America's Top Young Scientist.
Five Indian-American middle school students have earned spots among the top 10 finalists in the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge, one of the most prestigious science competitions in the United States for students in grades 5 through 8. Their innovative projects tackle everyday challenges by applying science to create practical and sustainable solutions.
The finalists represent different states across the country. Their ideas cover a wide range of issues, including environmental protection, food safety, road safety, climate change, and water conservation. Their selection highlights the growing role of young innovators in developing solutions that can improve daily life and benefit communities.
Innovative projects address real-world problems
The five Indian-American finalists are Aaisha Asif from Florida, Raji Doshi from Connecticut, Arika Kundu from Minnesota, Sharvi Mahajan from California, and Naboshree Santra from Florida.
Each student developed a unique project with a clear real-world application.
Aaisha Asif created an environmentally friendly adhesive inspired by mussels, which naturally attach themselves to surfaces. Her project explores how nature can inspire safer and more sustainable materials.
Raji Doshi designed a system that combines algae with calcium-based materials to help reduce ocean acidification. Her work focuses on protecting marine ecosystems by addressing one of the major environmental challenges affecting oceans today.
Arika Kundu introduced LIGNEX, a technique that uses agricultural waste, including peanut shells, to remove pesticide residue from fruits and vegetables. The project offers a simple and sustainable approach to improving food safety while making use of agricultural byproducts.
Sharvi Mahajan developed NeuroDrive Alert, an artificial intelligence-based system that detects driver fatigue and microsleep. The technology aims to improve road safety by warning drivers before fatigue leads to dangerous situations.
Naboshree Santra created biodegradable soil-shade balls that help the soil retain moisture and reduce water loss during dry conditions. Her innovation could support farmers and improve water conservation in regions facing drought or limited water resources.
Finalists to receive mentorship before championship
The competition does not end with the selection of the finalists. Each student will now work closely with experienced 3M scientists who will serve as mentors. During this mentorship period, the students will refine their ideas, strengthen their prototypes, and prepare for the final round of judging.
The final competition will take place at the 3M Innovation Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, on October 12 and 13. There, each finalist will present their project before a panel of judges.
The overall winner will receive a $25,000 prize and earn the title of America's Top Young Scientist. The competition provides students with an opportunity to showcase their scientific skills while gaining valuable experience from industry experts.
Young innovators inspire the next generation
This year's finalists stand out because their ideas focus on practical challenges that affect millions of people. Their projects demonstrate how science can be used to improve everyday life, whether by making food safer, reducing pollution, conserving water, protecting the environment, or improving road safety.
The success of these five Indian-American students also reflects the importance of curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving at an early age. Their achievements show that meaningful scientific innovation is not limited by age and that young minds can develop solutions with the potential to make a lasting impact.
As they prepare for the final competition, these students have already earned national recognition for their work. Their accomplishments serve as an inspiration to other young learners who are passionate about science and eager to solve real-world problems.
