Brentwood High Senior Named Regeneron Scholar

BRENTWOOD, NY — Brentwood High School senior Nica Fairweather has been recognized as a Top 300 semifinalist in the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search, the nation’s most esteemed science and mathematics competition for high school seniors.

According to the school, Nica’s groundbreaking research explores the critical intersection of ocean health and climate change.

Her project, "Assessing the Impact of Ocean Acidification and Climate Change on Ribbed-Mussel Byssus Formation Using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)," examines how environmental factors such as ocean acidification and rising temperatures may affect the tough, fibrous threads known as byssus, which allow ribbed mussels to anchor to surfaces.

Using advanced Scanning Electron Microscopy, Nica discovered that climate change could impair byssus formation, disrupting the delicate balance of protein secretion and assembly necessary for its structural integrity.

"Nica’s research underscores the profound impact of climate change on marine ecosystems and highlights the importance of protecting our oceans," said Dr. Rebecca Grella, coordinator of science and technology. "Her dedication and innovation are an inspiration to our entire community."

As a Regeneron STS semifinalist, Nica stands among the nation’s most promising young scientists. She is now in contention for further recognition as the field will be narrowed down on Jan. 23 to 40 finalists who will compete in Washington, D.C., for over $1.8 million in awards.

District representatives said that Brentwood High School congratulates Nica Fairweather on this outstanding achievement and celebrates her contributions to advancing scientific understanding of environmental challenges.