Honors Bio Student Presents at Prestigious Research Symposium

SCH honors biology student Richard Jiacheng Li ’27 recently showcased his independent research at a symposium at William Tennent High School and Fox Chase Cancer Center. Li was one of just 17 high school students selected for the prestigious Teen Research Internship Program (TRIP), where he conducted high-level research throughout the winter and early spring.

Li’s project delved into the fascinating world of microbiomes, specifically testing whether the parental microbiome of fruit flies significantly impacted the microbiome of their offspring. 

"I think that presenting my findings gave me the confidence to see myself as part of the growing science community,” says Li. “The questions and suggestions for my project from health professionals in the audience inspired me to further my research in the microbiome and fruit flies. It makes me realize that research is a conversation, not a final product." 

His exploration into the world of microbiomes, under the guidance of teacher Ann Zalasky and faculty members of Fox Chase Cancer Center, demonstrates the sophisticated research fostered within our science program in the Upper School, offering students a unique platform to contribute to cutting-edge scientific inquiry.