Year 12 student Kevin Hao recognised with international science prize

Year 12 student Kevin Hao is the first Australian to receive special recognition at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) for ‘promoting advancements in research, development, and innovation initiatives’.

Following the Australian Science and Engineering Fair (AUSSEF) in March, Kevin’s project ‘Model of Sedimentation Within Coastal Ecosystems’ was selected to exhibit on the world stage at ISEF, which was held last week in Los Angeles.

The Australian contingent at ISEF was accompanied by Knox’s Team Leader of Innovation, Ian Fairhurst.

Kevin developed his project after seeing the impact of climate change – ocean acidification and global warming – on the Great Barrier Reef.

“My project is essentially modelling how climate change can affect sediment erosion and deposition (rock and soil particles being washed away and deposited) and thus coastal ecosystems, such as the Great Barrier Reef, over a hundred years.”

This work was described by Charles Sturt University as “novel” and “outstanding” by the Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation Council, who awarded Kevin $500 in prize money for “remarkable contributions to research and discovery”.

Hard work aside, Kevin enjoyed the opportunity to meet his fellow AUSSEF team members, as well as like-minded people from around the world.

“My favourite part of being involved in ISEF were the people,” Kevin says.

“The Australian team were absolutely amazing, and I've been able to meet some of the brightest STEM students from across Australia, such as Darwin and Perth. At ISEF itself, I was able to make new friends and learn about people from other countries who I'll no doubt keep in contact with later on.”

In his spare time, he was able to visit “diverse and vibrant” Los Angeles, checking out places like Hollywood, Long Beach and Angel's Flight and enjoying the warmer weather.

“I couldn't thank my teachers and mentors, both at Knox and outside, in helping me reach this stage. A very special shoutout to Mr Fairhurst, who accompanied the AUSSEF team during the actual competition, and supported me and the rest of the team throughout.

“I'd also like to thank Dr [Reece] Roberts, Ms [Mel] Valent, Mr [Gordon] Smith and Mrs [Beth] Goddard who have also given me invaluable help preparing for the competition beforehand and allowing me to achieve my best.”