Last year, Aaron Bhowansingh, a senior at Hidden Valley High School, completed a scientific abstract for Carilion Clinic. He was one of the only high school students to do so; the other participants were all college students.

An abstract is a 250-word summary of a research paper that includes key sections such as the introduction, purpose, methodology, results, discussion and conclusion. Bhowansingh explained the significance of abstracts, saying, “It helps other people, specifically researchers, by providing a concise summary of the entire paper to help them determine if the study is relevant to their current research.”

Bhowansingh’s abstract focused on wastewater epidemiology, the process of sampling wastewater from a facility to identify pathogens present in the water. Specifically, he concentrated on one step of the process—DNA extraction—an essential phase that helps determine what pathogens are present.

His research centered on a fungal pathogen, Candida albicans, which is closely related to Candida auris, a highly dangerous pathogen. To extract DNA, Bhowansingh compared three cell lysis methods: mechanical, enzymatic and chemical.

The mechanical method involves placing tiny glass beads in a tube with the cells and shaking it to break the cell walls. The enzymatic method uses a hydrolysis enzyme to degrade the wall, while the chemical method relies on harsh chemicals for the same purpose.

“I found that the mechanical method was the most effective of the three,” Bhowansingh said. “However, none were particularly effective in general.”

National Board Certified Teacher Laura Weaver praised Bhowansingh’s academic excellence and drive.

“Aaron’s work ethic and motivation to be a highly successful student is unmatched,” Weaver said. “He sets an exceptionally high standard for himself and doesn’t shy away from challenging academic work.”

Bhowansingh plans to attend the University of Virginia in the fall.