Sirish Subash, a ninth-grade student from Snellville, Georgia, recently won the prestigious 3M Young Scientist Challenge, thanks to his invention of a device that detects pesticide residues on produce.
His achievement earned him a $25,000 cash prize and the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist,” an honor reserved for the most innovative young minds in science.
Sirish’s device, named PestiSCAND, uses AI and spectrophotometry to scan produce for pesticide residues, addressing a significant health issue affecting food safety.
From simple curiosity to a groundbreaking device
Sirish’s journey began with a simple, common question. His mother’s constant reminders to wash fruits and vegetables before eating got him wondering if washing really made a difference…