Bangor Teen Wins High Honors in International Science Competition
(Portland) The Bioscience Association of Maine (BioME) is pleased to announce that Ijeoma Obi, a senior at Bangor High School, was recognized with High Honors for her research at the International BioGENEius Challenge, the premier competition for high school students that recognizes outstanding research and innovation in biotechnology.
Ijeoma utilized a novel molecular design for the pharmacological modification of ion channel function, research that could help with the delivery of life saving medications. She won the state competition in April during a virtual competition and earned the right to go to the international BioGENEius Challenge, which was also held virtually this year because of COVID-19.
“We are very proud of Ijeoma and inspired by her work,” said Agnieszka Carpenter, Executive Director of BioME. “She represents the next generation of innovative scientists being fostered in Maine and we are pleased her research has been recognized by a prestigious panel of industry and academic experts.”
BioME is the official local partner of the BioGENEius Challenge which is sponsored by the non-profit Biotechnology Institute. According to the institute, young women of broad cultural and ethnic diversity historically represent just over 50% of finalists in the competition, important for the group’s effort to advance women in STEM.
Ijeoma is a senior at the Stem Academy at Bangor High School. Her presentation, “Synthesis of an Azobenzene – Based Cholesterol Mimic for Gated Ion Channel Modifications,” was one of just three recognized at this year’s BioGENEius Challenge.
Ijeoma’s presentation can be seen here:
https://biomaine.org/biome-hosts-student-showcase-virtually/
About BioME
BioME is a trade association devoted to promoting growth and development of Maine’s life science industry and serving its members and bioscience community by providing a network for public policy, industry advocacy and economic development. From promising start-ups to established corporations, BioME provides opportunities for innovation, collaboration and promotion of the life science, biotechnology and device manufacturing sectors in Maine.
