Young innovator honoured at world’s top science fair in US

SEÁN O’Sullivan, a student at Coláiste Chiaráin, Croom, has scooped fourth place at the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Ohio, USA.

The 2024 winner of the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE), achieved the recognition in the ‘Technology Enhances the Arts’ category at ISEF with his innovative project, ‘VerifyMe.’

His work focuses on the development of an artificial intelligence (AI) detection system that analyses an author’s previous writing to determine whether AI was used in generating a new piece of work.

In addition to his category award, Seán received a special prize from HP and a $3,000 scholarship. He represented the EU Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) at ISEF, having placed second in that competition earlier this year.

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ISEF, now in its 75th year, is the world’s largest international STEM research competition for secondary school students and is often referred to as the ‘Olympics of STEM.’

Ger O’Sullivan, principal of Coláiste Chiaráin and Seán’s father, shared his pride: “As both his principal and dad, I couldn’t be prouder. Seán’s dedication, curiosity, and perseverance over the past six years have been inspiring.

He continued: “This ISEF recognition is a fitting tribute to his hard work and a wonderful conclusion to his BTYSTE journey. Our school community is thrilled to see him honoured on the world stage.”

Bernadette Cullen, chief executive of Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board congratulated Sean on securing such acknowledgement on an international level, saying: “Sean has attained national and international recognition for his interest and expertise in the area of AI, and I would like to congratulate Sean, his family and school community of Coláiste Chiaráin.”

Mari Cahalane, head of the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, who accompanied the Irish delegation to ISEF, added: “I’m absolutely delighted for Seán, who took time away from his Leaving Cert studies to attend ISEF this week.”

She said: “The success of Seán, along with students Eoin and Matthias, is a testament to the calibre of our competitors and their ability to shine on the global STEM stage.”