Pasadena High School Student Matteo Paz Wins Prestigious Science Competition

Pasadena High School senior Matteo Paz has achieved a remarkable milestone, winning first place and a $250,000 prize in the Regeneron Science Talent Search, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and mathematics competition for high school seniors. Organized by the Society for Science, the competition recognizes exceptional young scientists whose research demonstrates innovative thinking and potential for significant impact.

Paz’s groundbreaking project involved designing advanced machine-learning algorithms to analyze an astonishing 200 billion entries of full-sky data. His work led to the discovery of 1.5 million previously unidentified celestial objects, including rare stars and galaxies, significantly expanding our understanding of the universe.

His achievement highlights not only his ingenuity but also the vital role of young scientists in pushing the boundaries of exploration. Learn more about his research and the brilliant mind behind this extraordinary discovery.

For more information, visit https://www.societyforscience.org/regeneron-sts/2025-student-finalists/matteo-paz/.

Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD), 351 S. Hudson Avenue, Pasadena, (626) 396-3600 or visit www.pusd.us.