Alan Alwakeel Wins Humane Science Award at 2026 ISEF
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Sept. 9, 2026 – Alan Alwakeel, a recent graduate of Stanton College Preparatory School in Jacksonville, Florida, has been honored with the Humane Science Award at the prestigious 2026 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). He is one of only five recipients worldwide to receive this accolade.
The Humane Science Award, sponsored by the National Anti-Vivisection Society (NAVS), recognizes innovative projects that advance science without harming animals. Alwakeel’s winning project, titled “The Virtual Cell 2.0: Expanding Precision and Personalized Cancer Therapy Through AI-Powered Simulation,” leverages advanced computational frameworks to assess the efficacy of various cancer treatments without the use of animal testing.
Alwakeel’s commitment to humane research is inspired by a family member’s battle with an aggressive form of breast cancer. He aims to enhance the speed and effectiveness of cancer treatment development through data-driven methods, ultimately benefiting both patients and animals.
Dr. Lauren Stein, NAVS director of science and research programs, praised Alwakeel’s work, noting its potential to revolutionize cancer research by providing a faster and more humane alternative to traditional methods.
Alwakeel plans to attend Harvard University this fall, where he will further develop “The Virtual Cell” platform while studying neuroscience and computer science.
This year’s ISEF attracted over 1,700 top high school students from more than 60 countries, who competed for over $7 million in awards. Other Humane Science Award winners included two U.S. students, a Canadian student, and a student from South Korea.
For further details about NAVS, please visit navs.org.
SOURCE National Anti-Vivisection Society
