Celine Zhang
Phillips Exeter Academy
Exeter, NH
Designing Zero-Knowledge Proofs for Agent Motion Planning
Celine Zhang, 18, of Princeton, New Jersey, developed a way to solve a mathematical problem related to digital and real-life puzzle games for her Regeneron Science Talent Search computer science project.
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Zero-knowledge proofs are pieces of information that prove someone has important data, like a password, without giving that data away. In her project, Celine found that these proofs can be applied to puzzle games where a moving avatar merges blocks, so that players who solve the puzzle can prove they did so without giving the answer away.
Celine’s approach, in which solvers prove their success by offering other players specific but limited advice, could apply to problems in digital security and machine learning, including blockchain authentication.
The daughter of Jennifer Hunt and Ning Zhang, Celine attends Phillips Exeter Academy, where she co-heads the engineering club. Celine also co-leads the Junior Computer Programming Club, where she teaches beginner programming to elementary and middle school students near Exeter. Celine also leads the soprano section of the co-ed a cappella singing group PEADQUACS, which performs at school showcases and admissions events as well as for community members.
Beyond the Project
As an instructor and teaching assistant for AlphaStar Academy, Celine answers student questions and conducts classes on computer science topics.
FUN FACTS: Celine always carries a deck of cards with her in case she gets a chance to play the strategy game Avalon with one of her friends.
