Indian American Students Named Science Challenge Finalists

The finalists, selected from thousands of applicants nationwide, will compete for the title of America's Top Young Scientist and a $25,000 grand prize. The competition, now in its 19th year, challenges students in grades 5 through 8 to identify a real-world problem and develop an innovative solution using science and technology.

The Indian American finalists are Anvitha K. from San Jose, California, who created a low-cost device to detect lead in drinking water; Rohan M. from Austin, Texas, who developed a biodegradable alternative to plastic packaging; and Priya S. from Edison, New Jersey, who designed a smartphone app to help people with visual impairments navigate public spaces.

Also named finalists are Arjun V. from Bellevue, Washington, who built a sensor system to monitor air quality in schools, and Meera N. from Naperville, Illinois, who invented a wearable device that alerts caregivers when a person with Alzheimer's disease wanders.

Each finalist will be paired with a 3M scientist mentor over the summer to refine their projects. They will present their final prototypes at a live event in October, where judges will evaluate their creativity, scientific knowledge, and communication skills.

The 3M Young Scientist Challenge has a history of recognizing young innovators, with past winners going on to patent their ideas and speak at national conferences. The 2026 finalists were announced on May 15, and the winner will be revealed during a ceremony in Minneapolis.