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James Lick student wins national Samsung ‘Solve for Tomorrow’ competition, school to receive $100,000
Summary
The board recognized James Lick High School student Jacen for winning Samsung’s national Solve for Tomorrow competition; the student described a proposed low-cost RNA blood test aimed at detecting cancer earlier, and the board said the school will receive $100,000 for educational support.
The school board formally recognized Jacen, a student from James Lick High School, as one of three national winners of Samsung’s 16th annual Solve for Tomorrow competition, and noted that the prize will bring $100,000 to James Lick for educational supports.
Superintendent introduced the student and the teacher and told trustees the competition selects three winners from thousands of applicants. Jacen described his project as an affordable early-cancer–detection approach that uses RNA sequencing of a standard blood test and computational modeling. "Using a simple blood test, we can look at RNA sequences using quantum physics and quantum mechanics to detect cancer 3 years earlier," Jacen said, adding that earlier detection could reduce the need for invasive or expensive treatments.
Jacen told the board he became invested in the project after a family loss and combined volunteer health experience, interest in computational biology and AI, and help from local public-health advisors and a Stanford doctor. "I applied in late October, was named among the top finalists in March, and last month we presented in Washington, D.C., in front of Samsung leadership," he said, noting feedback and mentorship from Santa Clara County public health and university partners.
James Lick’s teacher, identified in the meeting as Mr. Woo, said Jacen approached him with the idea and that the team worked through multiple competition phases and crafted a short presentation to the judges. Trustees praised the student and teacher for national recognition and noted the potential positive impact of the award on the school’s programs.
Board members encouraged photos and public congratulations; the board’s recognition took place during the May 7 meeting as part of its special recognitions.
What’s next: the board and district representatives said the $100,000 award will support educational programs at James Lick High School; no additional action items were listed at the meeting.
