LI Teens Make News As Only Twins To Be Regeneron Semifinalists

BRENTWOOD, NY—Two Long Island teenagers are making headlines for an exceptional achievement: Ricardo and Roberto Lopez are the only identical twins to become Regeneron Science Talent Search semifinalists since the 1970s. The Brentwood High School seniors' accomplishment is also trailblazing for their twins' family, as they will be the first in the family to attend college.

Last week, Roberto Lopez learned he was chosen as a finalist in the prestigious contest, one of seven students on Long Island to make the final round. All the finalists receive a prize of $25,000, and are in the running for the grand prizes for the top ten winners, ranging from $40,000 to $250,000.

Both students studied salt marshes on Long Island.

Roberto Lopez told ABC News before the finalists were announced that if either of the brothers made it to the next round, it would be a victory for them both.

"A win for him, is a win for both of us."

Brentwood is Long Island's largest school district, but not one of its most economically privileged. The twins' science teacher, Rebecca Grella, has worked with Stony Brook University to help increase minority representation in the sciences.

In 2012, Grella helped a formerly homeless student, Samanta Garvey, become an Intel semifinalist, triggering national headlines, and even attracting the attention of former President Obama.

She told Patch that the twins' accomplishment is the culmination of years of hard work and effort to "bring research to the students of Brentwood."

"In collaboration with Stony Brook University my colleague Dr. Dianna Padilla and I have spent the past 12 years engaging students in marsh related projects. It has been an incredible pleasure working alongside Roberto and Ricardo. Mentoring them on their projects has been a highlight of my career and what I dedicate my career to, building the next generation of scientists."

Now, the twins' story is once again putting Brentwood on the map, and recently, the Jumbotron in Times Square. Brentwood School District shared the moment on Facebook:

"Roberto and Ricardo were interviewed today by ABC 7 due to their tremendous scientific efforts and placement as 2022 Regeneron semifinalists. Congratulations boys and a special thank you to Dr. Grella, and all of our incredible Brentwood staff for igniting a love of learning in our students. Your dedication to your students helps them achieve wonderful things like this."

The district is about 86% Hispanic/Latino and last had a finalist in 2019, Ahmad Perez.

Dr. Grella explained that the brothers will be presenting their findings to New York State Parks, the students for climate Action and the Long Island Science and Engineering Fair.

"I am excited about what the future holds for Roberto and Ricardo—they have been interviewing at various colleges and universities, Georgetown , Yale, UPENN," she said.

Only 40 Regeneron finalists were chosen nationwide. And as for where this step might take the brothers in the future, Ricardo shared an estimable goal.

"I want to be a person who creates something new, to benefit the world."