Nonbinary N.C. Teen Wins $90k in National Science Competition

Nonbinary high school senior Linden James has won $90,000 in a national competition for science and math students.

James, who attends the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics in Durham, placed fifth in the Regeneron Science Talent Search, The News & Observerof Raleigh reports. There were 40 finalists in the competition, which is billed as the oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors. The winners were announced Tuesday.

In the project submitted for the contest, James looked at a potential treatment for traumatic brain injuries. They tested the application of a thyroid hormone called T3 on wax moth caterpillars. The results indicated the hormone could benefit humans.

“Linden is a gifted young neuroscientist whose research into a potential new treatment for traumatic brain injury could help us improve patient outcomes, and we very much look forward to finding out what they’ll do next,” said a statement from Maya Ajmera, president and CEO of the Society for Science and executive publisher of Science News. The competition is sponsored by the Society for Science and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals.

James said their parents and teachers encouraged them in scientific pursuits. Their win is a victory for inclusion, they told The News & Observer.

Trending stories

France becomes world’s first country to enshrine abortion rights in constitution

Cowboys & Queens U.S. tour by Jane Hilton: A modern American dream

Bob the Drag Queen shades Mistress Isabelle Brooks’ weight loss: 'Girl, you have to get new pads'

Elton John broke down crying while writing new song 'about my death'

Elon Musk uses burner accounts on X, doesn’t fact-check: report

All 6 rogue Mississippi cops got long prison sentences in 'Goon Squad' torture of 2 Black men

Country star Tanner Adell comes out as pansexual

How climate disasters hurt mental health in young people

The Charles is Pacific Grove's new LGBTQ+ hotel

Trump's orders prompt CDC to erase HIV resources

In 'Survival of the Thickest,' queer joy and activism are one and the same

Joe Biden has tied the record for most LGBTQ+ judges confirmed in federal courts

From rock legends to Pride flags: Discover the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in Asbury Park

Trans Day of Visibility meets MAGA? See this 'Drag Race' star's fierce stunt

Gerald Garth is keeping people of color happy and healthy through trying times

JD Vance ruthlessly mocked after everyone in Greenland refused to welcome wife Usha Vance

Country star Tanner Adell comes out, 'Yes, I'm pansexual'

Discover the power of Wellness in your life

Watch: In gay period romance 'Lilies Not For Me,' playful wrestling turns sensual (exclusive)

Where to stay in LGBTQ+ Ireland: Castles, domes and luxury retreats

Watch Kelly Clarkson celebrate Trans Day of Visibility on her show

Season 4 of The Switch on resilience & radical self-love returns this spring

For us, by us: 15 great trans movies made by trans filmmakers

SFAF's Dr. Tyler TerMeer says he'll continue to fight for health care for all

Discover why chic Costa Navarino is Europe's luxury getaway

• 0
• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5
• 6
• 7
• 8

“Being a nonbinary and queer finalist, this competition really speaks volumes to the acceptance and inclusion that the Regeneron Science Talent Search perpetuates,” James said. “I grew up in a family with two moms in a community that wasn’t always very accepting. And so coming this far is really empowering for me.”

“I’ve had mentors that really inspired me to keep going and have really shown me that I defined my self-worth, not any societal standards, not anyone else’s opinions of me,” they added. “Being able to pass that on, through this program and through the people I interact with and through the young queer scientists that might be looking up to me now ... that’s really amazing.”

They plan to attend college overseas and hope to work in a field that combines science and public policy, perhaps dealing with the environment or assisting developing countries. They are considering taking a year off after high school to work with children from marginalized communities. James currently is a counselor at a summer camp, volunteers with Kids Voting Durham, and is a Spanish tutor.