Madeline Borchert, a 17-year-old junior at the Alabama School of Math and Science (ASMS), just brought home the top honor from the Alabama Science and Engineering Fair.
Earlier this year, she took first place at the Mobile Regional Science Fair. That win earned her a ticket to compete at the state level, hosted at Auburn University.
Her project? A deep dive into designing RNA interference (RNAi) pesticides that precisely target invasive species—without harming everything else in the environment.
It’s advanced science, and the judges agreed. Madeline was awarded “Best in Fair,” the highest recognition available at the competition.
Mentorship Fuels the Work
Behind every standout project is strong support. At ASMS, Madeline is part of the Research Fellows Program, a hands-on research track that pairs students with mentors at local universities.
For her project, she worked with Dr. Jeffrey DeMeis at the University of South Alabama and was guided by ASMS Research Coordinator Asia Frey.
This program isn’t about classroom experiments. It’s about doing the kind of real-world research usually reserved for college students.
Students go through intense prep to gear up for the fast-paced, question-heavy science fair judging panels. For Madeline, that preparation clearly paid off.
Taking Alabama Talent to the World Stage
Next up for Madeline is the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), happening this May in Columbus, Ohio.
It’s the largest STEM competition in the world for high schoolers, with thousands of students from across the globe showcasing cutting-edge research.
Only four students from Alabama qualified for ISEF this year—and two are from ASMS.
Joining Madeline is Daniel Pacheco, a student from Lee County, whose project explores metal oxide catalysts for methane-to-methanol conversion using quantum theory.
Another ASMS student, YangHong Chi from Mobile County, was honored with an Excellence in Mathematics and Statistics Award for his work in graph theory.
Cash prizes came with the awards, but the recognition goes even further.
These wins mark the kind of achievements that can open doors to competitive universities, research grants, and internships.
A Program That Sets Students Apart
ASMS stands out in Alabama for a reason. The Mobile-based public boarding school pulls top students from across the state and places them in an environment built for academic growth.
Many teachers hold PhDs and bring real research experience into the classroom.
The Research Fellows Program gives students the chance to develop original projects, connect with university labs, and present their findings at major competitions.
According to ASMS president Dr. John Hoyle, these opportunities don’t just benefit students while they’re enrolled—they give them a lasting edge when applying to colleges and scholarships.
Public Presentations Coming Soon
On Friday, May 2, the ASMS campus will host its annual Spring Research Forum. It’s a chance for students like Madeline, Daniel, and YangHong to present their work to a broader audience.
Businesses, researchers, and community leaders will be there to see the kind of ideas taking shape inside this Mobile institution.
A Rising Generation of Problem-Solvers
Madeline’s award-winning research isn’t just a win for one student—it’s a glimpse of what happens when young talent, expert mentorship, and advanced resources come together.
From regional fairs to international stages, these students are showing that big innovation is growing right here in Alabama — and they sure make us proud.
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