Horizon Magazine · AI

Young Scientists Showcase Innovations at EU Contest

The EU Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) 2026 in Kiel, Germany, highlighted innovative projects by young scientists aged 14-20 from 37 countries. Four first prizes were awarded, recognizing advancements in plant stress detection, digital health, mathematics, and cancer research.

Italian teenagers developed a low-cost device and software to measure plant stress by detecting acoustic signals, potentially aiding farmers. Their project, PlantLeaf, won a first prize.

Belgian student Rune Bobbaers, who has type 1 diabetes, reverse-engineered and built an easier-to-use insulin pump, inspired by children's cartoons. He received an award for digital innovation.

A Polish student, Kazimierz Jakub Chomicz, advanced the understanding of the Chicken McNugget theorem, which has applications in computer science and cryptography. He also secured a first prize.

Canadian student Gurnoor Kaur explored using new wavelengths in pulse oximeters to improve detection of low oxygen levels in individuals with darker skin, addressing a known limitation of current technology.

A team from Georgia, Nikoloz Tkebuchava and Lizi Chachua, used AI simulations to study a protein potentially involved in brain and lung cancers, finding a possible feedback loop in cancer growth.

The event, organized by Kiel University, featured 141 participants and a jury of scientists. EUCYS aims to foster scientific exchange and showcase research among young minds.

EUCYS 2026 is part of the 'Science Comes to Town' initiative, which aims to bring science closer to citizens through various activities across multiple European cities.

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