Sage Hill School senior Jonathan Yan has been named one of the top 40 finalists nationwide in the 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS), a nationally recognized high school science competition.
The Regeneron Science Talent Search, run by the Society for Science, rewards leaders in STEM for their creativity, real-world impact, and precision with original research. Earlier in the competition, Jonathan was named a top 300 scholar, which included $2,000 for Jonathan and Sage Hill respectively. Each year, more than 2,500 students apply to the Regeneron Science Talent Search, and only 40 are selected as finalists. As a top 40 finalist, Jonathan will receive a $25,000 award and compete with other finalists this March for the top award of $250,000 with an additional prize pool totaling $1.8 million.
Jonathan was named a top 40 finalist for his research in bioinformatics and cancer metabolism, titled “Bioinformatic Analysis of Metastasis-Associated Metabolic Landscape Reveals an Oncogenic Role for the Transsulfuration Pathway.” His work focused on cancer metastasis, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, by using data driven analysis to develop possible treatments.
“Most cancer patients’ deaths result from a process called cancer metastasis, where cancer cells colonize foreign tissue and organs,” Jonathan said. “In my study, I aimed to use computer-based techniques to better understand metastasis and identify characteristics that could lead to potential treatments.”
Scholars are chosen based on the strength of their independent research, leadership skills, originality and community involvement.
“Their research highlights the creativity, rigor and determination that’s pushing forward the future of scientific discovery,” said Maya Ajmera, President and CEO of the Society for Science.
Jonathan’s work reflects a broader trend in science today: the growing use of computational approaches in solving complex scientific challenges.
“Nowadays, computational techniques are becoming increasingly advanced and can be applied to many publicly available large datasets on various diseases to reveal their hidden features and identify potential treatments,” Jonathan said.
Jonathan’s recognition highlights Sage Hill’s emphasis on research, critical thinking and inquiry. Celebrating its 85th year, the Regeneron Science Talent Search will award nearly $2 million to the top students and their schools.
“It is such a great honor to have been recognized as a Regeneron STS Scholar,” Jonathan shared. “It also encourages me to continue working hard and growing my knowledge in the field.”
The top 10 winners of the competition will be announced virtually on March 10 with finalists competing for additional prizes worth nearly $2 million.
