Gloria Yu ’26 Named Top 300 Scholar in 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search

Gloria Yu ’26 has been named one of the top 300 scholars in the 2026 Regeneron Science Talent Search, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors, in recognition of her research on plant-based methods to remove toxic chemicals from the environment. This year, more than 2,600 students applied from 826 high schools across 46 states, Washington, D.C., the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and 16 countries.

A Lawrenceville Hutchins Scholar in Science and Math, Yu conducted her research over two summers as an intern in the Princeton University Laboratory Learning Program. The Fifth Former combined her interests in science, math, and environmental sustainability in her award-winning project, “Advancing Phytoremediation of PFAS in Biosolids: Soil Condition Optimization and Nutrient Preservation.”

Yu’s research explored whether plants could help remove PFAS from biosolids — a byproduct of wastewater treatment commonly used as fertilizer. PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are widely used for their heat-, oil-, and water-resistant properties and are found in products ranging from cosmetics and clothing to non-stick cookware. Often called “forever chemicals,” they do not easily break down and have been linked to health concerns, including increased cholesterol, immune system changes, and certain cancers.

Through her literature review, Yu sought plants that “grow fast and have a proven phytoextraction ability, which means they can accumulate chemicals from the soil,” she said. She ultimately tested chives and cilantro, finding both effective at absorbing PFAS — particularly chives grown in acidic conditions.

Reflecting on her process, Yu said “being able to get strong results for basically each stage of my experiment was really rewarding.”

Looking ahead, she hopes to expand her work, potentially by “setting up constructed wetlands to see if the plants still degrade PFAS at the same level,” and to collaborate with wastewater treatment facilities and government agencies to “see if we could implement this on a commercial scale, in real life.”

“I hope in the future we can invent more eco-friendly chemicals,” Yu said, but until then, “if we want to reduce the PFAS problem, then the solution has to come from a combination of increased public awareness and scientific innovation.”

For more information, contact Lisa M. Gillard H’17, Director of Public Relations, at lgillard@lawrenceville.org