16-Year-Old Noor Haideri Triumphs in Global Science Contest, Secures $250,000 University Scholarship
Selected from a pool of thousands of submissions worldwide, her entry stood out for its clarity and scientific insight.
AKACHI NOEL 
In a stunning achievement, 16-year-old Noor Haideri, a high school junior from Overland Park, United States, has emerged victorious in a global science contest, the Breakthrough Junior Challenge. Her outstanding science video, delving into the impact of blue light on our sleep cycle, earned her a remarkable $250,000 scholarship to pursue higher education.
Noor's winning video dissected the science behind how blue light affects sleep, focusing on the role of the protein melanopsin in the eye and its connection to melatonin production. Selected from a pool of thousands of submissions worldwide, her entry stood out for its clarity and scientific insight.
Recalling the moment her name was announced, Noor shared, "They call my name up and I think, ‘I’m going to be getting some different award. And then I find out that it’s actually the Breakthrough Junior Challenge. It was one of the best surprises."
The coveted scholarship prize of $250,000 will fuel Noor's pursuit of multiple doctorate degrees. Additionally, her victory includes the establishment of a cutting-edge science lab at her high school and a $50,000 award for her science teacher.
Noor's success serves as an inspiration, showcasing the power of young minds in contributing valuable insights to the scientific community. Her dedication to understanding and explaining complex topics demonstrates the potential of the next generation of scientists.
