Two McNair Academic Seniors Named Regeneron STS Scholars

Meghana Addanki and Mythili Venkata Kota, seniors at McNair Academic High School, were named among the 300 scholars selected nationwide for the 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS), the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and mathematics competition for high school seniors.

Organized by the nonprofit Society for Science, the STS honors students conducting original, independent research. Scholars were selected from a nationwide pool of applicants who submitted research papers, essays, and recommendations. Each of the 300 Scholars receives a $2,000 award, with an additional $2,000 granted to their schools.

Addanki and Venkata Kota now join a distinguished cohort recognized for scientific achievement. The selection marks a significant accomplishment for the students and McNair Academic High School.

The Jersey City Public School District acknowledged the honor, stating: “The Jersey City Public School District is incredibly proud to celebrate Meghana and Mythili for their relentless dedication to scientific inquiry, innovation, and excellence.”

Of the 300 Scholars, 40 will be selected as Finalists to participate in a week-long competition in Washington, D.C., where they will present and defend their research before scientists and judges. Finalists receive at least $25,000, and the top prize is $250,000. In total, the program awards $3.1 million in prizes annually.

Sponsored by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals since 2017, the STS program has a legacy of producing leading scientists, including Nobel laureates, MacArthur Fellows, and innovators in multiple disciplines.