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Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology student Ray Zhang placed 10th in the 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search, earning $40,000 for research aimed at improving treatment for drug-resistant Fusarium fungal infections.
Zhang investigated how the fungus forms sticky communities of cells, known as biofilms, that withstand drug treatment. His research found that a combination of drugs controlled the fungus more effectively.
The project was inspired by Zhang’s experience volunteering at Prince William Medical Center, where he met a child with a rare fungal infection. That encounter led him to explore better treatment options.
Zhang was selected in January as one of 40 finalists from an earlier group of 300 scholars. The finalists traveled to Washington, D.C., in March for final judging, public presentations and meetings with scientists.
In addition to his research, Zhang serves as co-captain of TJHSST’s congressional debate team and founded the Voices of Healthcare Policy podcast. He also supports communications and marketing for his mother’s technology repair business.