One is improving the efficiency of first aid delivery in the event of mass casualties. Another is fighting the proliferation of counterfeit drugs and untested medical devices in emerging countries through a mobile RFID-based system. And, a third is dedicated to promoting dental health among children who don’t have knowledge of daily brushing techniques and benefits.
They aren’t medical professionals with years of experience but high school students from Shanghai, China who won the Applied Materials Future Science Stars competition this spring.
Last week, the five top scoring scholars visited Silicon Valley, presenting their projects to and fielding questions from Applied Materials executives. They toured the Maydan Technology Center, joined employees for lunch in the café, and talked about their lives and academic pursuits in China. It was clear that these amazing high school students are applying their talents to address significant issues impacting the human condition.
Programs that inspire the innovators and leaders of tomorrow – like the Future Science Stars challenge or the recently launched Clean Tech Competition in Xi’an, China and the San Francisco Bay Area in California – are engaging young people in creating inventive solutions to real-life problems. It is exciting to watch students work individually and in teams to develop unique ways to meet community needs around the world.
Check out the Applied Materials Clean Tech Competition website for the latest on the project. There is still time to encourage young people you know between the ages of 13-18 to register and join the contest to design a “Solar Solutions to the Rescue” as part of the project with the National Science Teachers Association. Who knows what incredible, inspiring, and world-changing solutions will be proposed!
