DRS senior a Siemens regional finalist

David Herman, a senior at Davis Renov Stahler Yeshiva HighSchoo lfor Boys in Woodmere, was named a regional finalist in the prestigious Siemens STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Competition for 2015.

Herman'sresearch project focused on hydrogen fuel cells.

Hewlett High School seniors Chenab Khaki, Remy Golden and junior Alec Fischthal, were named as semifinalists in the Siemens STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Competition for 2015.
The trio was selected for their research project: “Elucidating the Role of Early Light Inducted Proteins Through a Cryptogram Perspective.” They studied how plants adapt to stress conditions such as drought, high salt and high-volume light conditions.
Genes called early light inducted proteins were examined. It is thought they play a protective role in plants’ response to stress conditions. The genes were isolated in seedless plants and the research showed that the genes are vital for the growth and development of the fern. Understanding how the genes work could provide insight into the adaptations of plants to chagrining environmental conditions.

“I am extremely proud of the achievements of my students. A distinction in science competition does not reflect time and devotion students spent reading esoteric science journals, performing and repeating experiments, analyzing data and creating comprehensive research reports.  These superior works are performed in addition to the requirements from other classes and activities.  A distinction in a competition can however lend some validations and promote interest in future studies. I am very happy for the students recognized. Regardless of the outcome in a competition, I hope that more students would continue on the STEM pathway.”

Cedarhurst resident Tziporra Chwat, a student at Yeshiva University High School for Girls, was also a semifinalist.

There were 1,781 projects reviewed. Up to 300 are chosen as finalists and up to 60 advanced to the regional finalist stage.