Gatton Academy Student Won ISEF Award in 2026

Bowling Green senior Jiwoo Kim earned a prestigious grand award at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Life Sciences

Gatton Academy Student Won ISEF Award in 2026

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In 2026, Bowling Green student Jiwoo Kim secured a grand award in the cellular and molecular biology category at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. Kim was one of five Kentucky students recognized at the event, which featured more than 1,700 finalists from over 64 countries.

Why it matters

The fair serves as a global platform for young researchers, highlighting the high caliber of scientific inquiry emerging from Kentucky secondary institutions. Participation at this level provides students with vital exposure to global peers and competitive academic standards.

The competition awarded a portion of a $7 million prize pool to top participants. Jiwoo Kim successfully competed against a massive international field to win the third award of their high school career.

The players

Jiwoo Kim

Jiwoo Kim is a high-achieving senior at the Gatton Academy at Western Kentucky University who has earned multiple awards in high-level scientific research.

Dr. Robin Cooper

Dr. Robin Cooper is an academic mentor who provided the necessary research training and project guidance for the student's synaptic transmission study.

The details

Kim conducted research titled The Effects of Isoflurane on Crayfish Synaptic Transmission under the mentorship of Dr. Robin Cooper. The project investigated complex biological processes, marking a significant milestone in the student's research tenure at the Gatton Academy at Western Kentucky University.

Jiwoo Kim received a grand award at the fair in 2026.

The Big Picture

The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair stands as the premier global benchmark for pre-collegiate research excellence. This success by a Kentucky student reflects the broader trend of increased rigorous scientific engagement within specialized academic academies.

The research conducted by Kim offers foundational insights into synaptic transmission that may eventually influence biological understanding of anesthesia effects. Such projects demonstrate the practical applications students can explore even before entering undergraduate university studies.

The takeaway

This achievement underscores the value of structured mentorship between students and established faculty in secondary science programs. Aspiring young researchers can look to this project as a model for how focused, experimental study can lead to international recognition.