The 2025 Yau Science Award (Biology) has announced its finalists from across China’s northern and southern regions. These talented high school researchers have demonstrated creativity and scientific rigor in areas ranging from genetics and molecular biology to biomechanics and biomedical engineering. Their projects highlight the next generation’s ability to bridge fundamental research and real-world health applications.

Northern Region Finalists

School 657 – Beijing Normal University Affiliated Experimental High School
Advisor: Ma Jing
Student: Yan Ziqing
Paper: A Fall Risk Assessment Model Based on Deep Learning of Lower Limb Surface EMG Signals and the Application of External Assistance Systems for Elderly Fall Prevention

School 703 – Beijing Normal University Affiliated Experimental High School
Advisors: Li Yulong, Fang Wei
Student: Zhao Zihan
Paper: Optimization of Genetic Encoding for Neurokinin A Fluorescent Probe via Site-Directed Mutagenesis Strategy

School 826 – Haidian Daoxianghu School, Beijing
Advisors: Fan Zhenchuan, Wang Han
Student: Linda Su Zhao
Paper: Multiscale Study on the Effect of Tubby-like Protein 2 on Cilia-driven Motility Behavior of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

School 1446 – Tsinghua University High School
Advisors: Bai Xinxin, Wang Yangzhen
Student: Liu Yucheng
Paper: Investigation into the Mechanism of Ultrasonic Generation within Plant Stems and the Development of an Automated Real-time Ultrasonic Detection System for Plants

School 1624 – Beijing Keystone Academy
Advisor: Michelle Chow-Liu
Student: Anna Li
Paper: Comprehensive Monitoring and Early Self-intervention System for Chronic Cardiovascular Diseases

School 1788 – Nanjing Foreign Language School
Advisor: Zhou Yifeng
Student: Matthew Tunan Jiang
Paper: Association Study of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in X-Chromosome Inactivation Escape Genes with Susceptibility to Immune-mediated Diseases in Female Populations

Southern Region Finalists

School 598 – Shenzhen Middle School
Advisors: Zhang Mingjie, Hu Nan
Student: Li Yihao
Paper: The Ballet of Mysterious Droplets: Exploring Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation and the Design of Multi-phasic Protein Condensates

School 1172 – Shenzhen College of International Education
Advisors: Chen Erjun, Su Yiting
Student: Jiang Chenchang
Paper: Rapid Screening of TCRm Antibodies Based on Micro-well Arrays for Cancer Immunotherapy

School 1147 – Shanghai High School International Division
Advisors: Liao Hui, Xu Lin
Student: Ryan Zhang
Paper: Unveiling the Secret of Floral Freshness: How Gibberellin Acts as the “Youth Key” for Morning Glories

School 1439 – Shanghai High School International Division
Advisors: Liao Hui, Zhang Yanjie
Student: Andrea Qian Lei
Paper: Searching for “Smart-and-Sex” Genes — Evolutionary Drivers for Neuron and Germ Cell Development in Primates

School 1448 – Fudan University Affiliated Fuxing High School
Advisor: Li Yuan
Student: Sun Datong
Paper: Biosynthesis Study of Bio-based Poly-β-hydroxybutyrate Materials

School 1853 – Shanghai Tongji Huangpu School of Design and Innovation
Advisors: Zhao Yunlei, Wang Jintao
Student: Pu Xinyi
Paper: Development of a 3D-Printed Exoskeleton Assistive Device for Rare Disease Hand Rehabilitation