Five Questions with Benjamin Davis, winner of the $75,000 Regeneron Young Scientist Award at Regeneron ISEF 2025

At just 16 years old, Benjamin Davis has already taken on one of the world’s growing environmental challenges: plastic waste. The junior at Bishop Feehan High School in Attleboro, Massachusetts earned a $75,000 Regeneron Young Scientist Award at Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in 2025 for developing a desktop plastic recycling system that transforms 3D printed waste and other plastics into reusable filament for 3D printers.

By combining electrical, mechanical and chemical engineering methods, Benjamin designed a system that improves efficiency while dramatically lowering costs compared to commercial recycling machines. Since his win, he has continued refining his work, mentoring fellow students and thinking even bigger about the future of sustainable manufacturing.

We caught up with Benjamin to hear more about his experience at Regeneron ISEF, what he’s working on now and the scientific advancements he hopes to see one day become reality.

1. What did it mean to you to be a top winner at Regeneron ISEF 2025?

Being a top winner at Regeneron ISEF 2025 came as such a surprise to me, and the award means so much because I know how many phenomenal projects there were at ISEF. This award has led to so many new opportunities and experiences that I am incredibly grateful for and would not have had otherwise, including presenting at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) conference and becoming an American Junior Academy of Sciences (AJAS) fellow.

The recognition also gave me the chance to help other students with their presentations and projects and give back to the science fair community. Most importantly, my research in plastic recycling and extrusion has solidified my future plans to study advanced manufacturing and mechanical or materials engineering in college. It has also motivated me to continue improving my machine and pursue the next iteration of my research in the 2027 science fair cycle.

2. What was your most memorable experience from the competition?

The most memorable moment from the competition was hearing my name announced on stage for the Regeneron Young Scientist Award. But beyond the award itself, the most impactful part of ISEF was meeting students from all over the world.

This was the first time I had attended an event with so many like-minded people who shared my passion for science and engineering. I made friendships and connections that I still have today, and I will never forget the people I met during my time at ISEF.

3. What have you been working on since Regeneron ISEF?

Since ISEF, I have mainly been preparing to continue my research over the summer. I’ve spent countless hours reorganizing my workshop and acquiring new tools and equipment so I can create a better space for research and development.

I’m currently planning the next phase of my work, including improving my extrusion-pultrusion machine to make it even more efficient and commercially viable. I also hope to develop a new machine capable of creating high-temperature composite filaments.

Outside of my own research, I co-founded a club at my school called Tech Forge, where students learn how to use tools, engineer components and complete community service projects. One of our recent projects involved designing, wiring, coding and assembling a fully functional 10-foot conveyor belt inspired by the Polar Express for our school’s annual Santa Shop event.

4. If you could make one sci-fi technology real today, what would it be?

I would love to see teleportation become reality.

While I do not think it would necessarily be the best solution for human transportation because there would inevitably be mistakes and accidents, it could completely transform logistics and manufacturing industries. Teleportation could enable the extraction and movement of resources from almost anywhere, including deep underground or even throughout the solar system. That could dramatically improve access to energy and materials while helping address global resource shortages.

5. What advice would you give to inspire the next generation of scientists?

The most important thing in science and engineering projects is to stay passionate about your research while also maintaining balance in your life.

During parts of my project, I prioritized research over things like sleep and spending time with friends. Since winning, I’ve realized how important it is to take care of your health and wellness while still pursuing your goals.

At the same time, research is something anyone can do, and there are many ways to get involved regardless of experience level. Every student who has the opportunity to pursue research should try it, because the scientific, presentation and problem-solving skills you develop will stay with you for the rest of your life.