Three SciFest Projects Set to Represent Ireland at Regeneron ISEF 2026
In SciFest's 20th anniversary year, and thanks to the generous support of Regeneron, we are proud to send three outstanding student projects to compete at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Phoenix, Arizona in May 2026.
This marks a historic first for SciFest, with three projects representing the programme at ISEF in the same year, a powerful reflection of how far SciFest has come and of the exceptional depth of talent in Irish schools.
Meet the Students and Their Projects
Student: Zach O’Leary, SciFest STEM Champion 2025, Clongowes Wood College, Clane, Co. Kildare
Project: Simulating Atmospheric Muon Flux for Remote, Non-Invasive, Subsurface Imaging
Student: Addison Carey, Celbridge Community School, Celbridge, Co. Kildare
Project: Advancing Post-Quantum Lattice-based Cryptography by Developing Efficient Shortest Vector Problem Approaches
Student: Ronan Lyons, Lanesborough Community College, Lanesborough, Co. Longford
Project: Capill: Compliance Aid Promoting Independent Living Long-term
Their participation on the international stage is a testament not only to their innovation and dedication, but also to the strength of STEM education and opportunity across the SciFest programme.
Visit to Regeneron’s Dublin Office
On 26th March, the three students were welcomed to Regeneron’s Dublin office for a special visit ahead of ISEF. Accompanied by their teachers, they had the opportunity to present their projects to a panel of senior scientists.
During the visit, the students’ posters were displayed for staff, who engaged with them, asked questions, and explored the ideas behind their work. The experience provided valuable feedback and insights as the students continue to refine their projects in preparation for international competition.
The response from Regeneron was overwhelmingly positive. The students were highly praised not only for the quality and originality of their projects, but also for their presentation and communication skills.
This visit forms part of Regeneron’s ongoing support for the next generation of scientists and represents an important step in the students’ journey to ISEF.
Preparing for the Global Stage
The students have also recently reached an important milestone in their ISEF journey by submitting their projects to ProjectBoard. This rigorous process includes the preparation of a project video, headshot, quad chart and full presentation.
From 9 May, their work will be available to explore as part of the ISEF 2026 Virtual Showcase, offering a global audience the opportunity to engage with their research.
Looking Ahead
As Zach, Ronan and Addison prepare to travel to Phoenix, their participation stands as a powerful symbol of achievement, not only for themselves, their teachers, their schools and their parents but also for the wider SciFest community.
From everyone at SciFest, we wish them every success as they go on to represent Ireland at Regeneron ISEF 2026.