New Zealand Student Set to Shine at US Science Fair

Seventeen-year-old Sophie Ineson has earned the distinguished honor of representing New Zealand at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in the United States, scheduled for May 2024. Her innovative project, titled Disrupted Digestion, was selected as one of only two projects by judges from Royal Society Te Apārangi, following a rigorous selection process involving seven regional entries from students in years 11 to 13.

Ineson’s recent achievements underscore her dedication to scientific inquiry. Last month, she won the $50,000 Prime Minister’s Space Prize for Student Endeavour for her project focused on healing wounds in space. This recognition is a testament to her capabilities and potential as a young scientist.

Research Focus on Penguins and Plastic

Ineson’s project on penguin digestion arose from a deeply personal experience. After witnessing a sick penguin at a sanctuary several years ago, she felt compelled to explore the effects of plastic ingestion on these birds. “Penguins are also my favourite animal, so that really hit hard for me, looking at this poor little penguin who could hardly even walk, just because of eating a little tiny bit of plastic,” she explained.

Her research was further inspired by her participation in a sailing trip in the Hauraki Gulf last year, where she observed the alarming extent of plastic pollution. Ineson aims to raise awareness about the impact of everyday plastic use, stating, “I think that some people may not even consider how much of an impact maybe their plastic straw or just not disposing of the waste properly has on the penguins.”

In Ineson’s study, she investigated how various plastics affect digestive enzymes in king penguins. She focused on two specific enzymes, lipase and amylase, which were accessible and safe for her experiments. Her findings revealed that plastics do interfere with digestion, with the extent of disruption varying by factors such as size, density, and chemical composition of the plastic.

Support and Future Endeavors

To prepare for the international fair, a member of the Royal Society’s scientific review committee will mentor Ineson. This guidance aims to refine her project and enhance its presentation for a global audience.

Dame Jane Harding, president of Royal Society Te Apārangi, expressed the significance of science fairs in motivating students. “Science and technology fairs offer students valuable opportunities to apply scientific investigation to real-world problems, while strengthening their critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills,” she noted.

Ineson’s journey to the ISEF offers a compelling narrative of youth engagement in important scientific issues. Her work not only showcases her individual talent but also highlights the critical role of young scientists in addressing environmental challenges. As she prepares for this prestigious event, her passion and commitment to making a difference are evident, promising an exciting future for this emerging scientist.