Headshot of Rania Lateef

Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Society for Science announced that Rania Lateef, senior at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School and the Governor’s School @ Innovation Park (GS@IP), has been named one of the top 40 finalists in the 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS), the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors.

“Being named a Regeneron STS finalist is an incredible honor for me,” said Rania. 

Rania was selected from 300 national semifinalists who were honored for their groundbreaking research, leadership skills, and exceptional promise as STEM leaders. This achievement places Rania among the top young scientific minds in the country, a recognition that comes with a national platform to present her original research.

The Regeneron STS, organized by Society for Science, celebrates students’ innovative contributions to solving significant global challenges. This year’s 40 finalists were chosen from nearly 2,500 applicants representing 795 high schools across the United States and internationally.

“Winning this award validates the work I’ve been doing in my own ‘basement lab’ and at my schools. It shows me that you do not need to be in a high-powered research setting or surrounded by multiple PhDs and post docs to conduct meaningful research. You just need passion and commitment,” shared Rania.

Her research, “Rhythms and Blues: Evaluating the Impact of Artificial Light Exposure and Circadian Disruption on Biobehavioral Systems in Drosophila melanogaster,” reflects the interdisciplinary nature of modern science.

“It’s the culmination of a very exciting journey,” commented Rania. “Where I set out to answer some questions about how disturbed sleep and altered Circadian rhythm can impact our physical and mental health.”

Reflecting on her journey in Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS), Rania commented, “I’m so very grateful for the support I received from my schools, Charles J. Colgan High School and the Governor School @ Innovation Park, which have been with me every step of the way—even during summers!”

Rania acknowledged Stephanie Brown, an advanced placement biology teacher from Colgan, as having a "huge and awesome influence” on her by going beyond the classroom to inspire real-world applications of scientific principles. 

Rania also cited Dr. Alexis Patanarut, chemistry teacher at GS@IP. “When I was fortunate enough to get to [The Governor’s School], my horizons expanded even further. There, I had the chance to work with teachers like Dr. P., who are actual university professors, and I took a course called ‘Introduction to Research,’ where Dr. P. gave us structured guidance on how to take a project from conception to completion.”

These experiences have not only shaped Rania’s ambitions but also fostered gratitude for an academic community dedicated to her success.

“I am incredibly grateful for this academic community, which has helped shape me and my ambitions,” she said. “I hope they are as proud of me as I am of them!”

“Events like these are rarely the victory of just one person and we are so very PWCS proud of everyone who has reason to celebrate today,” said Rania’s mother, Dr. Tara Lateef.

She added, “I am incredibly grateful to the family of dedicated teachers and village of schools that has raised Rania with us! From being a Marshall eagle, then a Benton cougar and ultimately a Colgan shark, she has felt the love and embraced the guidance that these amazing educators have provided for her. She found new inspiration at the Governor’s School @ Innovation Park and met some of the most amazing peers who undoubtedly influenced her research pursuits.”

Dr. Lateef quipped, “Who would have thought some fun sleepovers with fruit flies would stand up to the work in high-powered research settings and university labs. Yet Rania had her own steadfast determination and the relentless backing of her teachers and science mentors.”

As a finalist, Rania has already received $27,000 and will now compete for more than $1.8 million in awards during a week-long competition in Washington, D.C., taking place March 6-12, 2025. There, she will present her research to nationally renowned scientists and compete for the top prize of $250,000.